MS SQL Server (1)

Crows Nest utilizes MS SQL Server for data storage.

SQL Server Express is available for free from Microsoft and the installation files can be downloaded from their website.

Other paid versions of MS SQL Server are also supported. You can utilize any existing instance of SQL Server or SQL Server Express or install a new instance. Crows Nest currently supports version 2008 and later.

There are three requirements for the SQL Server instance.

Mixed Mode Authentication - SQL Server has two methods of Authentication available (Windows Authentication and SQL Server Authentication) and a 3rd option that is allows both methods (Mixed Mode). Crows Nest requires Mixed Mode Authentication.
Windows Account Permission - To use the Crows Nest DB Utility application to create or update databases, you must be logged into the server using a Windows account that has been granted 'sysadmin' permissions to the SQL Server instance. While installing SQL Server, there is an option to grant the currently logged in user admin privileges. Using this option is the recommended and simplest way to make sure the windows account has the needed permissions. For administrators familiar with SQL Server with specific security configuration needs, it is possible to configure permissions separately through the SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) application.
SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) - While this application is not required for Crows Nest to function, it is recommended to install it. If using an Express version of SQL Server, download the option titled "... with Advanced Services" which includes SSMS. SSMS is an interface with the database server that can be used to troubleshoot connectivity issues and also can be used for database management for advanced users.