Lynn Pettis (4/12/2014)

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Port1433 (4/12/2014)

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Hi All,

I can't grasp the meaning of instance as it is being used in various contexts. For example SQL SERVER 2000,SQL server 2005, SQL Server 2008 and 2012 are called SQL instances. But to me these are just revisions aren't they?

I get lost because within a particular SQL Server version like 2008, 2012 you can have various instances as well? Can we or is it not possible? Wonder if there is some examples and clarification on it for a beginner.

Lost in the meaning and need help.

Thank-you

These: SQL SERVER 2000,SQL server 2005, SQL Server 2008 and 2012, are versions of SQL Server. An instance is an installation of SQL Server. Starting with SQL Server 2005 you can install multiple instances of SQL Server on a single server. You can have one default instance and multiple named instances. These instances are independent of each other.

A good place to start is to read Books Online.