SQL Server® 2012 Express Release Candidate - now available for download

SQL12_h_rgbThe Microsoft® SQL Server® 2012 RC0 Express is a powerful and reliable free data management system that delivers a rich set of features, data protection, and performance for embedded applications, lightweight Web Sites , applications, and local data stores. Designed for easy deployment and rapid prototyping, this download includes support for Sysprep, Microsoft's System Preparation Utility for Microsoft Windows operating system deployment.

  • LocalDB (MSI installer)
    • New to the Express family, LocalDB is a lightweight version of Express that has all its programmability features, yet runs in user mode and has a fast, zero-configuration installation and short list of pre-requisites. Use this if you need a simple way to create and work with databases from code. It can be bundled with Visual Studio, other Database Development tools or embedded with an application that needs local databases.
  • Express (Containing only the database engine)
    • The core Express database server. Use this if you need to accept remote connections or administer remotely.
  • Express with Tools (with LocalDB) Includes the database engine and SQL Server Management Studio Express)
    • This package contains everything needed to install and configure SQL Server as a database server. Choose either LocalDB or Express depending on your needs above.
  • QL Server Management Studio Express (Tools only)
    • This does not contain the database, but only the tools to manage SQL Server instances, including LocalDB, SQL Express, SQL Azure, etc. Use this if you already have the database and only need the management tools.
  • Express with Advanced Services (contains the database engine, Express Tools, Reporting Services, and Full Text Search)
    • This package contains all the components of SQL Express. This is a larger download than “with Tools,” as it also includes both Full Text Search and Reporting Services.

Go get it @ https://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=28151