Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Express & SSMS Installation

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Article Goal

Installation and Setup of Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Express and SQL Server Management Studio

In this article we are going to download and install Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Express.

Note: Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Express is available as a free download from Microsoft. It supports up to 50GB of database capacity, which is a significant increase from earlier versions that were limited to 10GB. However, this edition may not be suitable for all environments. If your user volume, reporting needs, or data retention requirements exceed the 50GB limit, you will need to purchase a Microsoft SQL Server Standard license through an authorized vendor.

Where Do You Download Microsoft SQL Server Express?

Click Download to get Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Express. 

Steps to install and setup Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Express.

1. Download the Microsoft SQL Server 2025 Express.

2. Run the executable to begin the installation.

3. Select the Basic installation type.

4. Read and click Accept to the License Terms.

5. Set the Install Location, then click Install.

6. Wait for the installation to complete.

7. Click Install SSMS (SQL Server Management Studio). NOTE: The Instance name (SQLEXPRESS) will be used later in configuring your appsettings.

8. Click Download SQL Server Management Studio 22 installer.

9. Run the SSMS Setup.

10. Click Continue on the Visual Studio Installer.

11. Select the Installation location, then click Install.

12. Wait for the installation to complete.

13. Once the Setup is complete, you may close this window.