How to Fully Uninstall MSSQL 2005 and Resolve Trial Version Issues

Are you struggling to uninstall the trial version of SQL Server Reporting Services and reinstall the full version of MSSQL 2005? You’re not alone! Many users face similar issues when transitioning from a trial to a purchased version. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to fully uninstall the trial version and ensure a successful installation of the full version with some helpful tips.

The Problem: Installation Errors with MSSQL 2005

After using the trial version of SQL Server Reporting Services, you might encounter an unexpected hurdle after purchasing the full version. Users have reported the following symptoms:

• The installer fails to recognize the trial version, preventing the full version from being installed.
• Vague error messages appear, which offer little guidance for resolution.

One common error users may see states, “There was an unexpected failure during the setup wizard,” leaving you confused and frustrated about how to proceed.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Uninstalling MSSQL 2005

To successfully uninstall the trial version and avoid installation errors, follow these steps:

Step 1: Remove SQL Server from Control Panel

1. Open Control Panel: Go to the Start menu and search for “Control Panel”.
2. Uninstall a Program: Click on “Programs” and then select “Programs and Features”.
3. Find SQL Server: Look for any installations related to MSSQL 2005 or SQL Server Reporting Services.
4. Uninstall: Select the SQL Server installation and click on “Uninstall”. Follow the prompts to remove the application.

Step 2: Cleanup Remaining Files

Sometimes, leftover files can cause installation conflicts. To ensure thorough removal:

• Navigate to the following directories and delete any SQL Server-related folders:
  • C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server
  • C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft SQL Server (if applicable)
  • You might also check for related data in the C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\SQL Server folder.

Step 3: Registry Cleanup (Optional, Advanced Users)

Caution: Editing the registry can harm your system if not done correctly, so proceed carefully.

1. Open the Registry Editor: Type regedit in the Start menu search and press Enter.
2. Backup your Registry: Before making changes, ensure you back up the registry.
3. Find SQL Server Entries: Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server and delete any SQL Server-related entries.
4. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer to apply the changes.

Step 4: Reinstalling MSSQL 2005

After successfully uninstalling and cleaning up, you’re ready to reinstall the full version:

1. Download the Full Version Installer: Make sure you download from an official source or your distributor.
2. Run the Installer: Follow the installation prompts carefully and make sure the installer is looking in the correct paths. This is especially important since users have reported path issues with downloaded installers versus physical copies.
3. Follow Up with Updates: After installation, check for any necessary updates, especially for enhanced functionalities like Oracle support.

Conclusion: Ensure a Seamless Installation Process

Transitioning from a trial version to a purchased software can be challenging, but with the right approach, it’s manageable. By following the detailed steps outlined, you can ensure a clean uninstall and a successful reinstallation of MSSQL 2005.

Should you encounter any installation hurdles, don’t hesitate to refer back to this guide or consult the relevant Microsoft Knowledge Base articles for additional support.

With careful attention to your installation paths and removing all leftover components, you will significantly reduce the chances of a confusing installation process again in the future. Happy installing!