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How to Set Up any Version of the AdventureWorks Database on a SQL Server

tip

If you just need to practice a few SQL queries on the AdventureWorks database, you could just use dbfiddle website which already has the AdventureWorks database available for use.

Check out the AdventureWorks 2022 database at dbfiddle!

The process for setting up any version of the AdventureWorks database (e.g., AdventureWorks2019, AdventureWorks2022) is generally similar. Here are the instructions for setting up AdventureWorks databases for different versions:

Download the AdventureWorks Database Backup​

  • Visit the Microsoft GitHub repository.
  • Download the .bak backup file for the desired version (e.g., AdventureWorks2019.bak, AdventureWorks2022.bak).

Install SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS):​

Restore the AdventureWorks Database​

  • Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
  • Connect to your SQL Server instance.
  • Right-click on the "Databases" node in Object Explorer.
  • Choose "Restore Database..."
  • Select "Device" and then click on the ellipsis (...) to locate and add the downloaded .bak file.
  • Click "OK" to start the restoration process.

Configure Database Permissions​

  • Ensure that your user account has the necessary permissions to access and modify the AdventureWorks database.

Verify the Installation​

  • After the restoration is complete, you should see the AdventureWorks database listed under the "Databases" node in SSMS.

Connect Your Applications​

  • Update your applications or tools to connect to the AdventureWorks database using the appropriate connection string for the SQL Server version you are using.

Important Notes​

  • Make sure to check the Microsoft documentation for any specific version-related instructions or updates.
  • Always use the latest version of SQL Server Management Studio and AdventureWorks databases for better compatibility.

By following these steps, you can set up AdventureWorks databases for different versions on your SQL Server instance. Always refer to the latest documentation for any version-specific details or updates.