The maximum size of databases supported by SQL Server 2008 R2 Express has been raised from 4 gigabytes to 10 gigabytes.

SQL Server Express continues to ship in four different editions, but several changes to the installation wizard to simply the installation process.

• SQL Server 2008 R2 Express Download
• Microsoft SQL Server2008 R2 Express with Advanced Services
• Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 Express with Management Tools
• Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 Express with Management Studio Express

For more information about the installation process, see Installing SQL Server 2008 R2 Express.

To get the free download, see Get the SQL Server 2008 R2 Trial or use the Web Platform Installer.

About SQL Server 2008 R2 Express

Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 Express is a powerful and reliable data management system that delivers a rich set of features, data protection, and performance for embedded applications, lightweight Web Sites and applications, and local data stores.

SQL Server Express is designed for easy deployment and rapid prototyping. This edition is designed to integrate seamlessly with your other server infrastructure investments.

Top Features

• Supports stored procedures, triggers, functions, and views
• Store all kinds of business data with native support for relational data, XML, FILESTREAM and spatial data
• Improved performance, usability, visualization, in addition to integration with the Microsoft 2007 Office System in SQL Server Reporting Services
• Simplify development efforts by leveraging existing T-SQL skills, ADO.NET Entity Framework and LINQ<

• Closely integrated with Visual Studio and Visual Web Developer

Bruce D. Kyle
ISV Architect Evangelist | Microsoft Corporation