Installing SQL Server: Configuration Settings

Choosing the SQL Server Instance

SQL Server allows you to install multiple instances on the same machine. You can choose between a default instance or named instances.

The default instance is accessed using the server name alone, while named instances require specifying the instance name.

• Default instance uses the server's network name.
• Named instances allow multiple SQL Server installations on one machine.
• Consider naming conventions that reflect the purpose or environment (e.g., DEV, TEST, PROD).

Authentication Mode

SQL Server supports two authentication modes: Windows Authentication and Mixed Mode (Windows and SQL Server Authentication).

Windows Authentication uses Active Directory accounts and is generally more secure.

Mixed Mode allows SQL Server logins in addition to Windows accounts, which can be useful for legacy applications.

• Windows Authentication is recommended for better security and easier management.
• Mixed Mode requires setting a strong SA password during installation.
• Avoid enabling Mixed Mode unless necessary.

Service Accounts Configuration

SQL Server services run under Windows accounts. Choosing the right service account is critical for security and functionality.

You can use built-in accounts like Local System, Network Service, or specify a dedicated domain or local user account.

• Use low-privilege accounts following the principle of least privilege.
• Avoid using Local System account for SQL Server services in production.
• Dedicated domain accounts are preferred for clustered or multi-server environments.

Configuring Data Directories

During installation, you can specify the directories for data files, log files, and backup files.

Separating these files onto different physical drives can improve performance and simplify maintenance.

• Place data files and log files on separate drives to reduce I/O contention.
• Use dedicated drives for backups to avoid impacting database performance.
• Ensure sufficient disk space and proper permissions for these directories.

Additional Configuration Options

Other settings include configuring SQL Server Agent, enabling FILESTREAM, and setting collation.

Collation settings affect sorting and comparison behavior and should be chosen carefully based on application requirements.

• Enable SQL Server Agent if you plan to schedule jobs.
• Configure FILESTREAM if your application requires storing unstructured data.
• Choose collation that matches your application's language and sorting needs.