Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 August CTP

The August CTP of Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 is now published: https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/evalcenter/ee315247.aspx. Give it a try and give us feedback!!!

 

This release does not have many changes around the Express when compared to SQL Server 2008.  But the next CTP will contains several improvements as a result of your feedback. Here are some of the changes that will be in the SQL Server 2008 R2 Express product:

  • The Express runtime package is smaller
  • Setup UI Changes
    • All user input defaulted (Vista and above): Therefore you can just click Next through the Installation Wizard. Less choices means better chance for success.
    • All features selected by default:
    • Number of clicks and screens: The number of steps or clicks to install have been reduced by 50%.
    • Pre-reqs: Clearer messaging whether .NET or MSI needs to be installed before proceeding with the installation and a direct link to the download