SQL Server Setup Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the frequently asked questions regarding SQL Server Setup.

Q: What do I need to do if I have an unsuccessful installation or I find an error in the Setup program?

A: If your installation fails and you are unable to determine the cause, or you find an error in the Setup program, find and save:

• The Sqlstp.log file, located in your \Windows or \WinNT directory.
• The Setup.log files, located in your \Windows or \WinNT directory.
• Any other files left in the target program directory (by default, \Mssql7).
• The Cnfgsvr.out file located in the \Install directory of the target program directory (by default, \Mssql7\Install).
• Any error logs located in the \Mssql7\Log directory.

  If the Setup program fails, changes to the operating system are rolled back, including removal of any copied files and removal of changes to the registry.

Q: Why aren't some directories deleted on uninstall? Why does the final uninstall report always report that it cannot remove folders?

A: The UnInstallshield installer removes only what it installs.

Files created after installation is complete, such as tempdb, are not part of the installation record and will be unknown to UnInstallshield. Therefore, UnInstallshield is not able to remove these files or their associated directories. Sqlsun.dll, which runs after UnInstallshield is complete, removes files such as tempdb and their associated folders. Sqlsun.dll will not remove error logs, trace files, user data, or their associated folders if they are generated in the original directory structure.