Installing SQL Server 2005 Components

Microsoft SQL Server 2005 can be installed through use of the Installation Wizard, or from the command prompt. The Installation Wizard provides a graphical user interface that guides you through each install-time decision, and is the preferred method for most users. The Installation Wizard provides guidance for initial setup of SQL Server 2005, including feature selection, instance naming rules, service account configuration, strong password guidelines, and scenarios for setting collations.

Command prompt installations are for advanced scenarios like silent installations; they can be run directly from the command prompt, or from command prompt syntax that references an installation file to specify installation options.

See Also

Concepts

Preparing to Install SQL Server 2005

Other Resources

Database Engine Installation How-to Topics

Help and Information

Getting SQL Server 2005 Assistance