So, I don't know how many people out there have run into this, but this is the second time I've bounced my head against my desk trying to figure this out.
So, I'm trying to install Microsoft's SQL Server 2005 Express with the advanced management package. Shouldn't be any big deal, I've done it before, no fuss right?
Well, yea, if there was no fuss I wouldn't be writing would I?
So, I install, and a bunch of errors come up after running the install (my choices were to use the advanced install options, use mixed authentication, and to install all the optional components on a fresh, base Windows XP VMWare setup with all the latest and greatest Windows updates and such. The first error I see pop up is that the SQL Native Client didn't install properly, and that I should find a new copy of 'sqlncli.msi' and try again. I think to myself, 'I don't have that file, it's all in the 'SQLEXPR_ADV.exe' that I got from Microsoft's site.' So, I reboot, try again. Same issue.
At this point I realize I'm dumb, and look at the log files and the event viewer. Not much help there, except to tell me once more that I need to find a new copy of the sqlncli.msi file and try again. Oie.
So, Google that file, find a download from Microsoft (here), and install the Native Client, then install the rest of the Express Server. Run the install, get prompted that I'm installing a newer version that what is currently there (um, sure, why not!), and all goes well. So, reboot again, then run the SQLEXPR_ADV.exe and wouldn't you know it, it works! I didn't see many useful articles on Microsoft's side on the issue, but I do know that this work around did solve my problem, and hopefully, will help you
