Sometimes problems occur with an instance of SQL Server 2005 or 2008 making it necessary to upgrade SQL Server to a more recent version.The instructions will help you upgrade an instance of SQL Server 2005 Express or SQL Server 2008 Express R2 to SQL Server 2012 Express without incurring any data loss.
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โBackup Your Database
Open the software on your server computer if possible and select File > Backup and Restore > Backup Database.
Save this backup to a location easily found again like your desktop.
Close the software on all computers in your network.
Upgrade Steps
Click here to download the SQL Server installation file from our website.
Run the installer once it finishes downloading. The installer will extract the files to begin installation. This may take a few minutes.
Choose Installation in the upper left if it's not already selected and click Upgrade from SQL Server 2005, SQL Server 2008, or SQL Server 2008 R2. The installer will run a check on your system to ensure it's configured properly. If it prompts you to restart your computer, do so and then run the installation file again.
Check the box to agree to the license terms. and click Next.
Select the instance to be upgraded from the Instance to upgrade pull-down menu. It will likely be named SQLEXPRESS, CMJ, or DSI. Click Next.
Click Next again and the upgrade will begin. This may take several minutes.
Once the installer finishes, SQL Server will be upgraded to SQL Server 2012 Express. There are no additional changed you need to make in your software.