Remove sql server 2005 express tools to Install SQL Server 2008

Question

I was trying to install SQL Server 2008 Express edition, and installation wizard was not allowing me to proceed further unless I remove SQL Server 2005 Express tools. I tried removing SQL Server 2005 Express tools from Uninstall Program window, but still the same error continues.

Answer 1

Solution

1. Open Run Menu and type regedit.
2. It will open Registry Editor
3. Now go to following location.

(32Bit) HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > Software > Microsoft > Microsoft SQL Server > 90

(64Bit) HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > Software > Wow6432Node > Microsoft > Microsoft SQL Server > 90

Remove Registry Key 90.

Now try to install SQL Server 2008 and it would work this time.

Answer 2

I got this problem just now. I know it's a late answer but I fixed it without touching the registry.

The problem was the old SQL server Management Studio Express (in my case).

I don't know if the problem can be fixed by uninstalling this software by the native windows uninstaller.

My solution

1. Download and run https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/290301/en-us (I used it in windows xp and I think that link will let you download new different application for vista/7/8).
2. Choice you have a problem with uninstalling software and select Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio Express (or enterprice or somethink, depends on currently installed version).

The "fix-it" application will try to uninstall the software, after the uninstallation success, you can Install newer version of SQL server.

Just in my case this worked. I using Windows XP.

Answer 3

In my case I had to remove Server 2005 from Add remove programs to fix the issue (didn't even have Express 2005 - despite the error complaining about Express 2005).