SQL Server 2008 R2 Install Won't Work

Question

I'm trying to install the developer edition of SQL Server 2008 R2. I run the setup as admin, but after it installs the "Setup Support Files", it closes and returns back to the installation center screen.

Any ideas?

Answer 1

I had this same problem and it appears to be something to do with previous versions leaving behind elements in their install/uninstall. I fixed it by running the Microsoft install/uninstall utility linked below. During the process you are asked what program you are trying to install and MSSQL Server 2008 R2 is listed. After running this the install continued after the "Setup Support Files" stage. Hope it helps!

http://support.microsoft.com/mats/Program_Install_and_Uninstall

Answer 2

So does it even installs Support files? You can check it by looking into "Programs and Features" (if using Windows Vista or 7) and if it is not there then it is not even installing support files. In that case may be you are missing components required for Support files itself (e.g. older version of Windows Installer).

Sometimes, SQL Server installer itself acts funny and without any reason it just crashes. Did you tried to run it again? Or try to run the installer after rebooting your system (I know this sound like a too rookie advice but in many cases rebooting OS solves issue).