SQL Server is a powerful relational database management system that allows users to store, retrieve, and manipulate data. One of the best ways to learn and explore the capabilities of SQL Server is by installing and working with sample databases. In this article, we will discuss how to install the WideWorldImports sample database in SQL Server.

The WideWorldImports sample database is a replacement for the old AdventureWorks sample database. It provides a realistic and comprehensive set of data that can be used for testing, learning, and experimenting with SQL Server features. The database is available for free download from the official Microsoft website.

Before we proceed with the installation, let’s first understand the different versions of the WideWorldImports sample database that are available for download:

• WideWorldImporters-Full.bak: Use this if you have the Enterprise, Developer, or Enterprise Evaluation Edition of SQL Server.
• WideWorldImporters-Standard.bak: Use this if you have the Standard Edition of SQL Server.
• WideWorldImportersDW-Full.bak: Use this if you have the Enterprise, Developer, or Enterprise Evaluation Edition of SQL Server and want to install the data warehouse version of the sample database.
• WideWorldImportersDW-Standard.bak: Use this if you have the Standard Edition of SQL Server and want to install the data warehouse version of the sample database.

It is important to choose the correct version of the sample database based on your SQL Server edition to ensure compatibility and avoid any issues during the installation process.

Once you have downloaded the appropriate file, you can proceed with the installation. Here is an example command that you can use to restore the WideWorldImports database:

USE [master]
RESTORE DATABASE [WideWorldImporters] FROM  
DISK = N'C:\WideWorldImporters-Full\WideWorldImporters-Full.bak' WITH
MOVE N'WWI_Primary' TO N'C:\WideWorldImporters-Full\WideWorldImporters.mdf',  
MOVE N'WWI_UserData' TO N'C:\WideWorldImporters-Full\WideWorldImporters_UserData.ndf',  
MOVE N'WWI_Log' TO N'C:\WideWorldImporters-Full\WideWorldImporters.ldf',  
MOVE N'WWI_InMemory_Data_1' TO N'C:\WideWorldImporters-Full\WideWorldImporters_InMemory_Data_1'
GO

Make sure to modify the file paths in the command based on your server configuration. Once the restore process is complete, you should see the WideWorldImporters database listed in your SQL Server Management Studio.

Now, let’s explore one of the features available in the WideWorldImports sample database. If you open the database, you will notice a table with a clock icon. This feature is called the “Temporal Table” feature, which allows you to track changes to data over time. It is a great way to learn and understand how this feature works by exploring the sample data.

If you prefer a visual demonstration of the installation process, you can watch the following SQL in Sixty Seconds video where it is explained in a concise manner:

Installing the WideWorldImports sample database in SQL Server is a valuable step towards gaining hands-on experience and understanding the various features and capabilities of SQL Server. It provides a real-world scenario for practicing SQL queries, exploring new features, and enhancing your SQL Server skills.

So, go ahead and download the appropriate version of the WideWorldImports sample database, follow the installation steps, and start exploring the exciting world of SQL Server!