thanks for the reply...i was able to install Ms sql server 2008 express R2...but it has only Configuration tools but no Management Studio. i downloaded "SQLManagementStudio_x86_ENU.exe" and "SQLManagementStudio_x64_ENU.exe" and tried to install it..

i chose Installation type as" new installation" but the installation stopped at the Installation Rules stage ..."Previous Release of Microsoft visual Studio 2008 Failed"

Next, i chose Installation type as" new installation"

When i choose"Add features" i get an error"Instance ID cannot contain special characters"

what am i doing wrong?Please help. thanks..