The database was backed up on a server running version 10.50.2500. That version is incompatible with this server, which is running version 10.00.5500.

Dear Microsoft, I am running SQL Server 2008 Express Edition. So that must be version 10.00.5500. Which one is 10.50.2500, exactly? Do I download SQL Server 2008 Express Edition Service Pack 3 for that? Or do I need the non-Express Edition? Or do I need SQL Server 2012?

No, what I need is SQL Server 2008 R2 Express Edition. Obviously.

Mondays are the worst.

You know what’s very quick and simple to install? Not this:

I can have MySQL running in about 10 minutes from a standing start. SQL Server 2008 Express Edition, on the other hand, can’t even open it’s manager without having a “this might take a few minutes” box pop up. And I’ve been bumping heads with the installer for two hours now (how can I just install the manager without installing everything? Joke’s on you, it’s impossible). It’s all installed, finally, but the components aren’t talking to each other.

GRUMPY.