Pre-install tasks: On-premises versions of SQL Server

Note: Review this section if you plan to use an on-premises version of SQL Server to store your PI AF asset model data.

SQL Server must be installed prior to installation of PI AF server. During the PI AF server installation, the PI AF SQL Server database is created on SQL Server through the execution of the AF SQL Server database scripts. PI AF databases contain PI AF asset model data that will be used for data modeling of your operational data.

To prepare for your PI AF server installation, install Microsoft SQL Server. If that is not possible, then work with your network administrator or SQL administrator to obtain the appropriate access and resources.

Deciding on which edition of Microsoft SQL server to use in your PI AF server deployment is based on your organization's needs. See SQL Server requirements for PI AF.