How to import .sql file into SQL Server Express

Question

I have a plain sql file with some SQL INSERT statements.

Is it possible to import it in my local SQL Server Express instance?

Answer 1

You can use Management Studio Express edition. You can download the latest version here - which will work against SQL Express 2005, 2008 and 2008 R2.

If you don't want to install SSMSE then you can use sqlcmd at a command prompt, e.g. something like this (assuming Windows auth and an instance called "SQLEXPRESS"):

sqlcmd -S .\SQLEXPRESS -E -i "C:\path\file.sql"

Answer 2

The easiest way would be simply open the file in the Sql Management Studio and run it. Since the target table is already created, of course.