[sql] After installing SQL Server 2014 Express can't find local db

I have downloaded and installed SQL Server 2014 Express (from this site: http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/server-cloud/products/sql-server-editions/sql-server-express.aspx#Installation_Options).

The problem is that I can't connect/find my local DB server, and I can't develop DB on my local PC. How can I reach my local server?

My system consists of Windows 8.1 (no Pro or Enterprise editions) 64 bits

Checking the configuration of SQL Server with SQL Server 2014 Configuration Manager tool, I see an empty list selecting "SQL Server Services" from the tree at the left. Below you can find a screenshot.

enter image description here

In the Windows Services list, there is just only one service: "SQL Server VSS Writer"

EDIT My installation window of SQL Server 2014 is the following: enter image description here

This question is related to sql sql-server sql-server-2014-express

The answer is


I have noticed that after installation of SQL server 2012 express on Windows 10 you must install ENU\x64\SqlLocalDB.MSI from official Microsoft download site. After that, you could run SqlLocalDB.exe.


Also, if you just installed localDB, you won't see the instance in the configuration manager. You would need to initiate it first, and then connect to it using server name (localdb)\mssqllocaldb. Source


Just download and install LocalDB 64BIT\SqlLocalDB.msi can also solve this problem. You don't really need to uninstall and reinstall SQL Server 2014 Express with Advanced Services.


I downloaded a different installer "SQL Server 2014 Express with Advanced Services" and found Instance Features in it. Thanks for Alberto Solano's answer, it was really helpful.

My first installer was "SQL Server 2014 Express". It installed only SQL Management Studio and tools without Instance features. After installation "SQL Server 2014 Express with Advanced Services" my LocalDB is now alive!!!


I faced the same issue. Just download and install the SQL Server suite from the following link :http://www.microsoft.com/en-US/download/details.aspx?id=42299

restart your SSMS and you should be able to "Register Local Servers" via right-click on "Local Servers Groups", select "tasks", click "register local servers"