How to configure existing SQL Server Express database for use with ArcGIS for Server Enterprise

[NancyMilholland]

Hi  - we have an existing SQL Server Express (2012) database and instances that were configured as personal with the 3 connection limitation. We now have ArcGIS for Server Enterprise and want to get rid of this limitation.

A look at the registry shows that the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\MSSQL$SQLEXPRESS ArcSDE_License key indicates Personal. The dbo..SDE_server_config table AUTH_KEY is consistent.

What steps can be used to upgrade the existing SQL Server Express db/instance personal geodatabase to take advantage of ArcGis Server Enterprise Advanced number of connections. We aren't looking to upgrade to regular SQL Express right now.

Thanks -

Nancy

[ThomasHoman]

Hi Nancy,

I recently ran into the same problem and while chatting with ESRI support was told that Enterprise does not support SQL Express. Thinking about it logically it make sense. The limitations of SQL Express (processor count & memory) could easily be swamped by enterprise use leading to performance and user frustration.

So really the only answer is to upgrade to a paid version of SQL server to get around the connection limits. Staying with SQL Express (personal or full) will only bring long term frustration.

Regards,

Tom