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Asked: 2026-05-23T18:45:41+00:00

I am trying to restore a backup of a SQL Server 2008 database –

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I am trying to restore a backup of a SQL Server 2008 database – but my engine is SQL Server 2005 Express. When I try and choose a different in the Management studio login, there is nothing BUT my SQL Server Express.

Now I am getting the RESTORE HEADERONLY is terminating abnormally on a 4+ GB DB that I need to restore.

Has anyone seen this? I am sure I installed SQL Server 2008 R2 (that’s why I see it when I open the Management studio) …so why do I only have SQL Server 2005 Express engine?

Thanks!
todd

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1 Answer

  1. Editorial Team

    It sounds like you only have the SQL Server 2008 R2 client tools installed. You will see the SQL Server 2008 R2 information on SSMS, but that doesn’t indicate whether any server is installed.

    I assume that SQL Server 2005 Express was installed already.

    Of course, as you’re seeing, the restore of a SQL Server 2008 backup will fail on the 2005 Express server.

    You will probably have to install SQL Server 2008 R2 server again to get it installed. There are certain minimum requirements to install the server. I’m not positive, but I think if your computer doesn’t meet the requirements, the install will automatically install client tools only.

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