In some instances the database will not install, due to Microsoft permission issues on Windows Server 2012 R2.

Apply all the latest Windows updates before continuing with the steps below, as the latest updates should resolve the issue.

Install error 0x851a001a

-OR-

Unable to connect to the Symantec Ghost Solution Suite DB Management Service.

Please make sure this service has been started and running correctly.

Windows 2012 R2

SQL express 2014

Ghost Solution Suite 3.x

Permission issues with the default SQL Server Databse Engine install account, NT Service\MSSQL$SQLEXPRESS.

1. Navigate to C:\DSSetup\SQLEXPR_x86_ENU.exe , Run as Admin.
2. Select New SQL Server stand-alone install > Next
3. Perform a new installation of SQL Server 2014 > Next
4. Accept licensing terms > Next
5. Select All features > Next
6. Select Named Instance > type like "Ghost eXpress", Copy/Paste name for Instance ID > Next
7. Click on Account Name for the SQL Server Database Engine and change it to your Ghost Service Account > Next
8. Select Mixed Mode and specify the password for SA account, Add Ghost Service Account if not already present > Next
9. Run the C:\DSSetup\axinstall.exe , Select Custom install and connect to the "Ghost eXpress" database.

In some cases these additional steps may be needed:

1. Downloaded ExpressAdv 32BIT\SQLEXPRADV_x86_ENU.exe from Microsoft,  https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=42299
2. Run SQLEXPRADV_x86_ENU.exe. Open the SQLEXPRADV_x86_ENU and run SETUP.exe.
3. Select option to Add Features > Select the Ghost eXpress database > Select check boxes for Management Tools - Complete & Basic > Next
4. Open the SQL Management Studio from Start > All Programs > SQL 2014 express
5. Add Ghost Service Account user to SQL and give DBO rights to Ghost eXpress database.
6. Run thru the Ghost Custom Install and connect to the Ghost eXpress database.