Download Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Express

SQL Server 2012 Express is a free edition of SQL Server that is ideal for learning, developing, and powering desktop, web, and small server applications and for redistribution by ISVs. Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Express offers 5 different options for download. Here are brief descriptions to help you determine the best fit for your needs:

LocalDB (MSI installer)
New to the Express family, LocalDB is a lightweight version of Express that has all its programmability features yet runs in user mode and has a fast, zero-configuration installation and short list of pre-requisites. Use this if you need a simple way to create and work with databases from code. It can be bundled with Visual Studio, other Database Development tools, or embedded with an application that needs local databases.

Express (Containing only the database engine)
The core Express database server. Use this if you need to accept remote connections or administer remotely.

Express with Tools (with LocalDB, Includes the database engine and SQL Server Management Studio Express)
This package contains everything needed to install and configure SQL Server as a database server. Choose either LocalDB or Express.

SQL Server Management Studio Express (Tools only)
This package does not contain the database, only the tools to manage SQL Server instances, including LocalDB, SQL Express, SQL Azure, etc. Use this if you already have the database and only need the management tools.

Express with Advanced Services (contains the database engine, Express Tools, Reporting Services, and Full Text Search)
This package contains all the components of SQL Server Express. This is a larger download than “Express with Tools” as it also includes both Full Text Search and Reporting Services.

Need more information? See the product details page.

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Available in:

32-bit and 64-bit editions
These languages: Chinese (simplified), Chinese (traditional), English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portugese, Russian, Spanish