Unable to install SQL Server Express - Error SQL Server service failed to start?
Imagine a simple installation of SQL Server Express 2005 edition fails with an error "SQL Server service failed to start?"
Whether it may be on a X64 based operating system or on a simple desktop with XP PRO, as usual you would go with default install options. When the installation fais always best to check the error log for the reason behind. Further rollout of logs such as Event Log, SQL Server installation log would help a lot to obtain further failure information.
Errors such as: An error occurred during encryption. Error: 15209, Severity: 16, State: 1.
2007-10-19 20:14:59.51 spid5s Starting up database 'mssqlsystemresource'.
2007-10-19 20:14:59.51 spid5s The resource database build version is 9.00.2047. This is an informational message only. No user action is required.
2007-10-19 20:14:59.65 spid5s Error: 15209, Severity: 16, State: 1.
2007-10-19 20:14:59.65 spid5s An error occurred during encryption.
Interestingly the text says "No user action is required"!
KBA 920114 explains the reasons behind such an error during the encryption, where this is applicable for 32 bit operating systems. Whenever installing or rolling out SQL Express installations better to switch off any file sharing services as per the above KBA.
Also to proceed further when installing SQL 2005 Express, uncheck the "Hide Advanced Settings" checkbox. Continue with the installation. When you get to the point where you are selecting the service account select "Local System" instead of "Network Service".