Chapter 4 -- Planning For and Installing SQL Server

Chapter 4

If you have appropriate hardware that's running Microsoft Windows, installing Microsoft SQL Server 2000 is a snap. It requires little more than inserting the CD into the drive and answering a few questions. Even a novice can comfortably install SQL Server in less than 15 minutes. The installation program doesn't ask a lot of questions about how to configure your system because SQL Server 2000 is primarily self-configuring. I won't spend much time discussing the mechanics of the installation program. You can consult the online Help and the documentation's step-by-step guide if you need to. In fact, you can read the complete documentation on installation and upgrading right from the CD before you take the first step in the installation process. The first splash screen that appears when you load the CD into the drive contains an option to "Browse Setup/Upgrade Help." Installing SQL Server is so easy that you might be tempted to dive in a bit too soon. That's OK if you're in "learning mode," but an installation that will be part of a production system deserves some thoughtful planning.