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Installation choices

On Windows, you have three server models to choose from: Superserver, Classic and Embedded Server. This means you have some decisions to make before installing Firebird 2.1.

Note: The Embedded Server model is intended for conditions where you want to deploy the server, a database (or databases) and your own application together for use on on a single computer with only one user. It does not run on its own. If you are new to Firebird, it is recommended that you regard this model as one you can design for, using one of the full server models for initial acquaintance and development. The setup instructions for deployment of applications using Embedded are discussed towards the end of this chapter.

Choosing an installation method

Under almost all circumstances you should use the binary installer to install Firebird on Windows. If you are new to Firebird you should certainly use the binary installer until you are familiar with a standard Firebird server installation. It covers all common usage cases and is typically 'click-through' by accepting the default values.

Cases when you might wish to consider installing Firebird manually from a zip file include:

• You need to run multiple versions? of Firebird concurrently
• You wish to run the Firebird service as a special user
• You need to deploy a specific configuration for your application.

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