How to Download and Restore Northwind database to SQL Server

This post shows you How to Download and Restore the Northwind database to SQL Server, then you can use the Northwind database as a sample database to learn SQL Server.

How do I create a Northwind database?

Northwind database that can be downloaded as an executable sql script or as a backup file that can be restored with sample data currently works with Sql Server 2005, 2008, 2012, 2014, 2016 & 2017.

How do I download Northwind database?

To download the Northwind backup database file you can go Codeplex or Northwind database link, then unzip your downloaded file, you will see the Northwind.bak file or Northwind.sql script file. You can easily find the northwind database sample download bak in the extracted folder.

How do I restore my Northwind database?

First, Install and open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

If you haven't installed SSMS, you can download it from the official Microsoft website: Download

Once installed, Open SSMS and connect to your SQL Server instance by entering the necessary credentials.

Next right click on the database -> select Restore Database...

restore sql database

Select your backup database file

backup database

Enter your database name that you want to restore

restore sql database

Click OK button to finish restore your database to SQL Server.

What is the Northwind database?

The Northwind database is a sample database provided with Microsoft Office suite. The Northwind database contains sales data of a fictional company called Northwind Trader, specializing in the export and import of specialty foods from around the world.