How to: Install Sample Databases
Many Visual Studio topics and code samples require the ability to connect to a database, such as the Northwind and AdventureWorks sample databases. If you are running SQL Server and the sample database is unavailable, see the SQL Server Books Online for information about installing it. If you do not have a copy of SQL Server, you can access the sample databases by installing SQL Server Compact 3.5, SQL Server Express Edition, or an Access version of Northwind.
Note
Your computer might show different names or locations for some of the Visual Studio user interface elements in the following instructions. The Visual Studio edition that you have and the settings that you use determine these elements. For more information, see Visual Studio Settings.
Installing Databases
To install the Northwind and Pubs sample databases for SQL Server
Open Internet Explorer.
Go to the Northwind and Pubs Sample Databases Web site.
Click Download.
In the File Download box, select Save.
After the file has downloaded, double-click the Nwind.exe file to install the database.
To install the AdventureWorks sample databases
- Download the AdventureWorks sample databases from the CodePlex Web site..
To install the Northwind sample database for Microsoft Access
Open Internet Explorer.
Go to the Access 2000 Tutorial: Northwind Traders Sample Database Web site.
Click Download.
In the File Download box, select Save.
After the file has downloaded, double-click the Nwind.exe file to install the database.
Security
Always check for product updates when installing additional software.
See Also
Tasks
Walkthrough: Adding a SQL Server Compact 3.5 Database to an Application and Deploying it
Walkthrough: Creating a SQL Server Express Database
Concepts
Preparing Your Application to Receive Data
Fetching Data into Your Application
Binding Controls to Data in Visual Studio
Editing Data in Your Application