Creating a local SQL database for testing

I am creating a VB.net application that will connect to a Microsoft SQL database. I first just want to test the application locally. What is the best/easiest way to set up the database? Do I need to create a SQL server or can I just store开发者_如何转开发 the database as a file? I have no idea where to begin.

Assuming you're targeting SQL Server 2005 or 2008, your best solution would be to install SQL Server Express.

SQL Server 2008 Express

SQL Server 2005 Express

Use an SQL Express instance on your local machine.

Look at: http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/en/us/editions/express.aspx to get started.