How to Install SQL 2005 Express on Windows Vista

In operating systems before Windows Vista, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Express is easily installed. But Vista users have a problem with the installation if Internet Information Services (IIS) components are not installed. Installing SQL Server Express on your Vista machine requires enabling IIS as a prerequisite.

1. Step 1

   Click on the "Start" button, select "Settings," then choose "Control Panel."

2. Step 2

   Double click the "Program and Features" icon in the "Control Panel." This opens a window with a list of installed programs.

3. Step 3

   Check all options under the "World Wide Web Services" directory.

4. Step 4

   Click "OK." After clicking the button, the features will install on your computer. This might take several minutes.

5. Step 5

   Double click the executable to install Microsoft SQL Express. SQL Server Express is a free program offered by Microsoft. The location of the executable is found at microsoft.com/Sqlserver/2005/en/us/express.aspx.

6. Step 6

   Click "OK" at the default screen. When the install application opens, the defaults are sufficient for most computer applications.

7. Step 7

   Click "Finish." After the program has installed, a summary is shown and it can be opened in Vista.