In this article I will explain with an example, how to download and install the Northwind database in
SQL Server 2017.
Step 1: Download the Microsoft’s free sample Northwind database
In order to download the Microsoft’s free sample Northwind database, you will need to visit the following URL.
Step 2: Installing Microsoft’s free sample Northwind database
A Setup file (.MSI) will be downloaded. You can save it on your desktop as you’ll need to execute it once download is complete.
As soon as the file download is completed, you can start the installation by Double clicking the Setup file or by doing Right Click and then clicking the Install option from the Context Menu.
![SQL Server 2017: Download and Install Northwind Database]()
Once the installation is completed, you can check the installed database files in the following location, and you will find the Northwind database in the Installation Folder.
![SQL Server 2017: Download and Install Northwind Database]()
Step 3: Attaching the Northwind MDF file to SQL Server Database using Management Studio
Now you need to start the SQL Server Management Studio and then Right Click the Databases Folder from the Object Explorer. In the Context Menu click on the Attach option as shown below.
![SQL Server 2017: Download and Install Northwind Database]()
This option will open up a File Browser within
SQL Server and you need to navigate and select the
NORTHWIND.MDF file and press OK button.
![SQL Server 2017: Download and Install Northwind Database]()
Once the above step is done. You will see that the database is now available in your
SQL Server along with the other databases.
![SQL Server 2017: Download and Install Northwind Database]()
