As Microsoft shifts toward cloud-first strategies with Azure SQL, SQL Server Express 2019 remains relevant for on-premises and edge scenarios. With SQL Server 2022 now available, Express 2019 continues to receive security updates and support until January 2030, providing long-term stability. Its role as an educational and developmental bridge to Azure SQL Managed Instance ensures it will not become obsolete quickly.
Navigate to the official Microsoft Download Center for SQL Server 2019 Express . download microsoft sql server express edition 2019
: Once the SQL Server installation finishes, click the Install SSMS button in the installer window. As Microsoft shifts toward cloud-first strategies with Azure