I am having the same issue with SQL 2008 Express. I tried to install the SP1 for it (my original install of 2008 express w/ advanced services was before sp1 was introduced) but it failed with the usual useless failure code that means just about anything wen wrong. Anyways, I uninstalled SQL 2008 express and rebooted. Now it won't install. In case my saved-to-DVD copy was bad redownloaded the installer (noticing that sql express 2008 regular had been updated on MS's site to include sp1 but advanced was still without sp1). Again I ran the downloaded installer, watched it unpack, watched the DOS screen flash up and close as it tried to start the bootstrapper setup.exe and then watched as it removed the temp folder.

This is really annoying - I've tried the other express versions with the same result. I even located a copy of the SQL 2008 sever disc at work just to see if it would install.

Every time the same - the bootstrapper setup.exe flashes briefly and fails right back out. Event log - nothing. Run the setup.exe from a command prompt - starts and then returns to the prompt without an error.:angry::angry::angry::angry::angry: