When working with this tutorial, you will use the AdventureWorks database as the sample data.

Sample data

The AdventureWorks sample database will not be available after the setup if you are using MS SQL Express. You need to download the database separately and install it.

To learn more about the AdventureWorks database, see Microsoft TechNet.

Download the AdventureWorks database

The AdventureWorks Database is a database backup for the MS SQL server.

Download the AdventureWorks2014.bak database backup from GitHub:

https://github.com/Microsoft/sql-server-samples/releases/tag/adventureworks

You can also try the direct download link.

The version of the database backup must be the same as the version of your Microsoft SQL Server installation. In this tutorial, Microsoft SQL Server 2014 is used. If you use a different version, download the corresponding database backup.

You need to save the .bak file to a folder accessible to the NETWORK_SERVICES user.

Restore the database from backup

To install the database backup:

Start the SQL Server Management Studio.
The Connect to Server dialog will appear.

Select your named server, use the Authentication method of your choice and click Connect.
The manager connects to the database.

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Right-click Databases and select Restore Database.

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The Restore Database window will appear.

Select Device and click Browse:

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The Specify Backup dialog appears. Click Add.

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The Locate Backup File dialog appears.

Select the directory where you saved the file, select the .bak file and click OK.

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The backup will appear on the list. Click OK.

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The backup also appears in the Restore Database dialog, in the Backup Sets To Restore list.

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Make sure to select the Restore check box next to the database backup and click OK.
The database is installed, and a confirmation dialog appears.

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Click OK.