3 Answers. As the error message states SQL Server 2016 is not supported in Windows 7. You will have to upgrade to Windows 8 or higher or switch to a Windows Server operating system. Here is a list of all the operating systems (and other hardware and software requirements) in which SQL Server 2016 can be installed.

Which version of SQL Server is compatible with Windows 7?

SQL Server 2008 express runtime is supported on Windows 7 and on Windows 2008 R2.

Does Windows 7 support SQL Server 2014?

The minimum operating system requirements for the SQL Server 2014 are one of the following: Windows Server 2012. … Windows Server 2008 SP2. Windows 7 SP1.