Overview
You will learn
- How to compare the local deployment methods for the server-only (database) version of SAP HANA, express edition
- How to choose the method that fits your operating system and experience level
- Where to go next once your instance is running
Prerequisites
Prerequisites
- Registration: You must register for the product before downloading SAP HANA, express edition. Follow the steps in Register for SAP HANA, express edition.
- Memory: 8 GB RAM minimum; 12 GB recommended for the server-only version.
- Disk space: Sufficient free disk space for the download and installation — see your chosen installation guide for the exact figure.
- Operating system: A supported 64-bit Linux distribution. The server-only version does not install natively on Windows or macOS — on those hosts use Docker, a Linux virtual machine, or SAP HANA Cloud trial.
- Docker (Docker path only): A working Docker installation on a supported Linux distribution.
Steps
Intro
This is a short decision guide, not a hands-on installation walkthrough. Its goal is to help you pick the deployment method that matches your machine and skill level, then send you to the dedicated tutorial that walks through that method step by step.
This tutorial covers the server-only package — the SAP HANA database engine on its own, without XS Advanced or other application services. If you need those application services, follow one of the full-installation guides linked from the branches below instead.
Before choosing a method, confirm your laptop or server meets the minimum requirements for a local deployment:
- 8 GB RAM minimum, 12 GB recommended for the server-only version.
- Sufficient free disk space for the download and install.
Not enough RAM or disk space?
If your machine does not meet these requirements, use SAP HANA Cloud trial instead — a completely free, hosted, cloud-managed solution with nothing to install locally. See Deploy SAP HANA Cloud trial.
You will deploy using one of the methods below. Pick the branch that matches your machine and experience level — you only need to complete the one you choose, and the picker above hides the paths that don’t apply to you.
Once your server-only instance is running, continue with:
- Get Started with the SAP HANA Database Explorer — connect to your new instance, set your passwords, and run your first SQL.
- Register for SAP HANA, express edition — if you have not registered yet.
- Explore more SAP HANA learning content on SAP Learning to deepen your database administration and development skills.
Resources
Discussion
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