Crows Nest utilizes Microsoft SQL Server for data storage.
SQL Server Express is free from Microsoft and recommended. Database size is limited to 10 GB, which has been adequate for all customers to date.
Other paid versions of MS SQL Server are also supported (version 2008 and later).
Microsoft SQL resources
Configuration requirements
Server Authentication
SQL Server uses three ways to authenticate user access:
method 1 = Windows Authentication
method 2 = SQL Server Authentication
method 3 = Mixed Mode Authentication (allows both methods 1 and 2)
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)
SSMS is an interface to the database server. Use it to troubleshoot connectivity issues, and to manage your database (advanced users).
Installation is recommended, though not required to run the Crows Nest application.
If using an Express version of SQL Server, download the option titled "... with Advanced Services" which includes SSMS.