Creating a local SQL database for testing

I am creating a VB.net application that will connect to a Microsoft SQL database. I first just want to test the application locally. What is the best/easiest way to set up the database? Do I need to create a SQL server or can I just store开发者_如何转开发 the database as a file? I have no idea where to begin.

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Assuming you're targeting SQL Server 2005 or 2008, your best solution would be to install SQL Server Express.

SQL Server 2008 Express

SQL Server 2005 Express

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Use an SQL Express instance on your local machine.

Look at: http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/en/us/editions/express.aspx to get started.