How to fix exit code(decimal):-2147467259 error description: The system cannot find the path specified when install sql server 2022 developer edition

Question

Answer 1

Hi,

Thanks for your question

Please find similar thread for an error code 2147467259 error description: The system cannot find the path specified

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/263964/unable-to-install-sql-server-(setup-exe)-exit-code
or
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/1163010/unable-to-install-sql-server-exit-code-(decimal)-2

As per that thread,

The error message "The system cannot find the path specified" showed that there are some files of SQL Server basic component couldn't be located. It is possible that these files are corrupted or the access for these files is denied.

Thank you!

Answer 2

Hi @UJJAVAL TRIPATHI

This issue can occur specifically with SQL Server 2022 when certain files required for the instance to run do not extract properly during the installation process.

When this happens, the SQL Server service fails to start, which prevents the local server from connecting in SSMS. This error is often due to incomplete or corrupted file extraction during the installation.

You can verify this by:

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Look for the SQL Server (Instance Name) in the list.
3. If the service isn’t running and cannot be started, it confirms the issue is with incomplete file extraction during installation.

To resolve this issue, follow these steps:

1. Remove all files related to SQL Server 2022 to ensure a clean installation.
2. Install SQL Server 2019 instead.

SQL Server 2019 Express handles these files correctly, allowing the instance to run and connect successfully in SSMS.

This solution is based on observed behavior with SQL Server 2022 and the steps that have proven effective in resolving the issue.

Thank you!