Windows Internal Database

Microsoft ❘ Commercial ❘
Windows

Powerful and Embedded SQL Solutions with Windows Internal Database

Boris Weber

01/27/2025

Windows Internal Database offers a seamless SQL Server experience for developers looking to create applications that require an embedded, efficient, and lightweight database.

Microsoft's Windows Internal Database is a lightweight version of SQL Server that is built into the Windows operating system. It is an embedded database engine that allows applications to store and retrieve data locally, without requiring a separate installation.

The database is designed for streamlined deployment and maintenance, making it an ideal choice for small-scale applications or instances where a full-blown SQL Server installation would be overkill. Despite its compact size, the Windows Internal Database still offers many of the features found in a standard SQL Server installation, such as security, backup and recovery, and automatic tuning.

Windows Internal Database is most commonly used by Microsoft products such as SharePoint and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
The database engine supports both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.
Data can be accessed using a variety of tools, including SQL Management Studio and the command line utility sqlcmd.

Windows Internal Database is a cost-effective and easy-to-use option for developers and IT professionals who need a lightweight database engine for their applications.

Overview

Windows Internal Database is a Commercial software in the category Audio & Multimedia developed by Microsoft.

The latest version of Windows Internal Database is currently unknown. It was initially added to our database on 10/29/2007.

Windows Internal Database runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

Windows Internal Database has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

Comes pre-installed with Windows Server operating systems
Does not require additional licensing costs
Suitable for small to medium-sized organizations with simple database needs

Cons

Not designed for high-performance, high-availability, or large-scale database applications
Limited scalability and features compared to full-fledged database systems like SQL Server
May not offer advanced security features or compliance certifications required for certain industries

FAQ

What is Windows Internal Database?

Windows Internal Database is a relational database engine that is included with various versions of Microsoft Windows, primarily for use by Windows Server-based applications.

Which versions of Windows include Windows Internal Database?

Windows Internal Database is included in Windows 2008 R2, Windows 2012, Windows 2012 R2, and Windows 2016.

Can Windows Internal Database be used as a standalone database server?

No, Windows Internal Database cannot be used as a standalone database server. It is designed to be used by specific applications and cannot be accessed or managed like a regular database server.

What are some example use cases for Windows Internal Database?

Examples of applications that use Windows Internal Database include Windows Server Update Services (WSUS), Active Directory Rights Management Services (AD RMS), and Windows SharePoint Services.

Can third-party applications use Windows Internal Database?

Yes, third-party applications can use Windows Internal Database if they are specifically designed to do so. However, most applications have their own database requirements and do not rely on Windows Internal Database.

How can I manage Windows Internal Database?

Windows Internal Database can be managed using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or the command-line tool SQLCMD. These tools provide administrative access to the database and allow you to perform tasks such as backup and restore, querying data, and managing permissions.

Is it possible to backup and restore a Windows Internal Database?

Yes, you can back up and restore a Windows Internal Database just like any other SQL Server database. The process is similar and can be done using tools such as SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or the command-line tool SQLCMD.

Can I upgrade Windows Internal Database to a full version of SQL Server?

No, Windows Internal Database cannot be upgraded to a full version of SQL Server. If you require the additional functionality and features of SQL Server, you would need to install and configure a separate instance of SQL Server.

Is Windows Internal Database supported for production use?

Yes, Windows Internal Database is supported for production use when used by Microsoft applications that specifically require it. However, it is not recommended or supported for use by general-purpose applications.

Where can I find more information about Windows Internal Database?

You can find more information about Windows Internal Database on the Microsoft Docs website. The documentation provides detailed guidance on installation, management, and troubleshooting.

Boris Weber

I am an editor at UpdateStar. I started as a support engineer, and am now specialized in writing about general software topics from a usability and performance angle among others. I telecommute from UpdateStar’s Berlin office, when I am not working remote as a digital nomad for UpdateStar. When I'm not analyzing the latest software updates, you can find me exploring new cities, immersing myself in local cultures, and discovering innovative tech trends across the globe.

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