By default, LocalDB stores system databases and user databases in the user's AppData folder: C:\Users\<UserName>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server Local DB\Instances\ If this folder is hidden or corrupted, the instance will fail to start.
It uses the same sqlservr.exe engine as other SQL Server editions but requires a minimal set of files to operate. Core Features & Technical Limits
This is the most common method. In the Visual Studio Installer, selecting the workload or the individual component "SQL Server Express 2019 LocalDB" installs the necessary files.
Last updated: 2026 Compatible with: Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server 2016+