Install SQL on a PC to be a Server or Backup Server

The Toniq program requires Microsoft SQL Server to be installed on the server computer. The same or a newer SQL Server version should be installed on a backup computer to make unplanned server moves more efficient.

On new computers intended to become the next server, the latest SQL Server version should be installed, followed by installation of the same or newer version on a backup PC.

SQL 2025 Express has a 50GB database size limit, previous versions had a limit of 10GB. This can be extended using FileStream and database compression; however, once the main database files reach their limit, an upgrade to SQL 2025 Express or a paid SQL edition will be required if the site is already on SQL 2025 Express. Please refer to Toniq support if you have any further questions.

Installing SQL Express on a New or Backup PC

1. Establish a connection to the computer requiring SQL installation.
   • Note: Upgrading SQL to the latest supported version is recommended for consistency and system hygiene. Uninstallation of older SQL versions is not required.
2. Download SQL Server 2025 Express from www.toniq.co.nz/Tools/SQL Server 2025/SQLInstall2025.exe.
   • See also MS SQL Server for Toniq Database for more details.
3. Run SQLInstall2025 once the download has completed. Follow the Next and Finish prompts as required (there are no configuration steps required during this install).
   • Note: The installation may fail if pending Windows updates are present. To ensure a successful installation, Windows should be fully updated and the computer restarted before proceeding with the process.
4. Configure SQLSetup and install Vault if required.

Paid SQL

Paid SQL installations depend on the source:

• If supplied by Toniq, please contact the Toniq support team for installation onto new and existing PC's
• If supplied by a Third party please contact Toniq support for configuration steps.
• Where third parties provide SQL, they are expected to supply both the installation media and appropriate licensing.

Reviewed: 13/02/2026