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Direct Systems Hardware and Software Requirements for SQL

Last updated on January 27, 2025.
Important Note: Please note that our IBS SQL Version relies on specific hardware and software requirements to ensure optimal performance and security. Keeping your infrastructure up to date is essential for a smooth experience.

This document provides guidance on the recommended hardware and software requirements for deploying and operating Direct Systems' IBS SQL Version. Following these recommendations ensures optimal performance, reliability, and security for your setup.

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Mainstream Support and End of Life:

Microsoft has ended Mainstream Support for all server operating systems prior to Windows Server 2019 1809.

For Windows workstations, all versions up to Windows 10 21H2 are already out of support. Microsoft will end Mainstream Support for Windows 10 22H2 on October 14, 2025. After this date, security updates, bug fixes, and technical support will no longer be available. If you are running Windows 10, we recommend checking if your hardware supports Windows 11 and planning an upgrade when it is feasible. If you are considering upgrading your hardware in the near future, please ensure the new hardware meets the requirements for Windows 11 to ensure long-term compatibility.

Mainstream Support refers to the period during which Microsoft provides free updates, security patches, and general support for an operating system. After Mainstream Support ends, the product enters the Extended Support phase, during which only critical security updates are provided. While our software may still run on earlier versions, we recommend following Microsoft's guidance for end of life to ensure security and compatibility.

Yearly updates are available to Windows 10 from Microsoft at no cost, and it is recommended to install those when available. For more information, you can review Microsoft's Windows Lifecycle Fact Sheet.

Operating System Recommendations

Server

  • At least Windows Server 2019 with the latest Service Packs
  • We recommend new server hardware to run the latest supported version of Windows Server OS, such as Windows Server 2022, to ensure maximum security and lifecycle support.
  • It is recommended to implement a RAID configuration (RAID 1, 5, 6, or 10) for data redundancy and performance.
  • Invest in a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for servers and network switches to protect against power interruptions.
  • Clients should track OS lifecycle dates to avoid potential security issues.
  • Consult with IT suppliers if your server OS is nearing or past its end-of-life date.

Workstation

  • At least Windows 10 22H2 or higher with yearly updates installed
  • We recommend using Windows 11 for new hardware to ensure longer lifecycle support.
  • At least an Intel i5 processor (or equivalent) with a 64-bit OS
  • A minimum of 4GB RAM, though higher is recommended
  • We recommend using SSDs instead of HDDs wherever possible for improved performance.
  • 100/1000 MB NIC strongly recommended
Note: Set up a shared folder named IBSSQL and grant Everyone full access rights. Ensure compression is disabled on this folder.

Microsoft SQL Server

Direct's new products are built on top of industry-standard Microsoft SQL Server. Some of the benefits include speed, reliability, and cost. The Express Edition is FREE, holds databases up to 10GB in size, and supports up to 15 users.

If your setup includes more than 15 concurrent users or databases larger than 10GB, you must use at least Microsoft SQL Server Standard Edition. We do not support SQL Server Express for installations exceeding these limits.

Important: Update your server operating system with the latest OS updates before installing Microsoft SQL Server.

Requirements

For detailed information, please read our Hardware Requirements.

  1. Install Microsoft SQL Server with SQL Server Management Studio:
    • Install on the same server where the program files will be located, if possible.
    • SQL Server Management Studio is referred to as "Management Tools" on the download page.
    • Choose "Windows Authentication" when prompted for credentials. If you supply a password, please make note of it.
    • Use the Microsoft Download Center for installation.
    • SQL Server database should be named IBS.
  2. Enable Remote Connection to SQL Server:
    • This allows TCP access and SQL Server Authentication.
    • SQL Server Express does not allow remote connections by default, so you must enable it manually.
  3. Configure Windows Firewall for Database Engine Access:
    • This ensures your SQL Server instance is visible on the internal network.
    • The SQL Server Browser Service uses