SQL Express Advanced edition gives you two more great tools to use on your server; Full-text search and reporting services. Installing SQL express has been a very painless adventure. However, recently I have noticed that Microsoft has added this package to the Web Platform Installer system (Web Platform Installer). You can still install this package outside of the WPI (links later).
Remember that SQL express only allows up to 4 GIG databases and 1 Gig Memory. (SQL edition comparison)
This quick instruction sheet will show you how to install SQL Express Advanced edition and the client tools (SQL manager).
1st – obtain the download (SQL express download) – Select the SQL Express with Advanced Services
2nd – Once you select the install button, the package with either launch Web Platform installer or install web platform installer)
3rd – Install the client tools. For some reason each attempt I have made to install the advanced services the client tools (sql manager) was not installed. To install the client tools: Open Web Platform Installer
Select Web Platform on the left tabs
Then select the Customize link under the Database section
Once you have completed this you can add the Management tools.
Good luck and happy SQL’ing.
