SQL SERVER – SQL Server Express – A Complete Reference Guide

SQL Server Express is one of the most valuable products of Microsoft. Very often, I face many questions with regard to SQL Server Express. Today, we will be covering some of the most commonly asked questions.

SQL SERVER - SQL Server Express - A Complete Reference Guide microsoft-sql-server-express

Q: What is the cost of SQL Server Express?
A: It is a FREE product from Microsoft.

Q: Why should I use SQL Server Express when I have full version available?
A: Usually, I install only the license version product on my system. When I do not have to use all the features of SQL Server, I install the express version.

Q: What is the maximum size per database for SQL Server Express?
A: It supports a maximum size of 4 GB per database, which excludes all the log files. 4 GB is not a very large size; however, if the database is properly designed and the tables are properly arranged in a separate database, this limitation can be resolved to a certain extent.

Q: Can MySQL be compared with SQL Server Express as both of them are free products?
A: Yes. Both are free and have their own space. However, thus far, I have never faced a situation wherein the task that can be accomplished by using MySQL is not accomplished by SS Express.

Q: Does SQL Server have sufficient help available online?
A: Yes. There are so many online help resources available for Express version that users will find strongest community for any FREE product.

Reference: Pinal Dave (https://blog.sqlauthority.com)

SQL Server, SQL Server Express
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11 Comments. Leave new

  • Jacob Sebastian
    August 26, 2009 1:10 pm

    Very useful post Pinal (as usual)

    Just wanted to add a point that is specific to SQL server 2008.

    The 4 GB limitation is not applicable to FILESTREAM data. It means that a SQL Server 2008 Express database can store FILESTREAM data that is larger than 4 GB(the FILESTREAM data size is only limited by the size of the disk volume)

    Reply
  • Thanks Sir,
    It’s really useful information.
    All the links are very useful.

    Reply
  • hi,

    i was installed SQL Server 2005 Express Edition. In that how to create database using visual studio 2005. Please give me the details.

    Thank u

    Reply
  • Hi,
    I need help with SQL Server 2008 Express on an XP Pro setup, because it has screwed up my system.
    To run a simple front end of a trivial, but essential piece of software, the supplier has forced me to download and install SQL Server 2008 Express. Their instructions on how to create a new database to run with their font end caused the links to SQL… to break and I tried to uninstall it using the Control Panel. No sign of the SQL.. but the files were there in the Program Files folder.
    I tried Restoring to an earlier time, but it would not go back on any restore points.
    I tried to reinstall the package from the supplier, but at the end of the install, the log file shows:-
    File trusted
    Installing using command ‘C:\DOCUME~1\ALANPE~1\LOCALS~1\Temp\VSD8.tmp\SqlExpress2008\SQLEXPR32_x86_ENU.EXE’ and parameters ‘/q /hideconsole /action=Install /features=SQL /instancename=SQLEXPRESS /enableranu=1 /sqlsvcaccount=”NT Authority\Network Service” /AddCurrentUserAsSqlAdmin /skiprules=RebootRequiredCheck’
    Process exited with code -2068643839
    Status of package ‘SQL Server 2008 Express Edition’ after install is ‘InstallFailed’

    Apart from sliting my throat and endin it there, how can I clear out the system and get it going again?

    Signed
    Desperate!!!!

    Reply
  • Excellent article. Very good knowledge sharing. Thanks for same.

    Reply
  • is it possible to upload images into the data base in sql server express edition

    Reply
  • sanjeev kumar
    March 7, 2011 10:26 pm

    Hi… guys i want to MS SQL Server 2005 certification.
    How would i apply for this exam. m from Mumbai which are the centers dat conduct MS examination.

    [email removed]

    Reply
  • Can I assume that SQL server 2008R2 Express can be installed on a Windows-7 (personal edition) machine??

    I noticed that version 2005 could be installed on Windows-XP thus maybe 2008 can be done with a Windows-7…

    Thanks!
    Raul

    PS. you do great work

    Reply
  • Hi.. I would like to ask if we can install MSSQL 2008 R2 in a server which previously has installed with SQL express? Thanks .

    Reply
  • thats great

    Reply

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