How to install SQL Server 2008 on Windows Server 2008 R2 RC

Thu, 14 May 2009 20:44:00 +0000

I was trying to install SQL Server 2008 on Windows Server 2008 R2 RC.

But, when I launch SETUP.EXE, Windows warns me that SQL Server is not compatible with Windows Server.
If I ignore the warning, the install proceeds but then fails to install .NET 3.5.

After a little searching and experimentation I found a way to install without any problems:
1. Create a slipstreamed SQL Server 2008 SP1 install, follow the instructions here.
I set my PCUSOURCE=".\PCU" and that worked fine.
2. Add .NET 3.5 by going to server manager and adding the .NET 3.5.1 feature.
3. Install by running SETUP.EXE.

Sqlserver on Pieter Viljoen's Blog

How to install SQL Server 2008 on Windows Server 2008 R2 RC