The SQL Server Installation Center will open. Go to the Installation tab on the left and click "New SQL Server stand-alone installation or add features to an existing installation."
Click the Download button. You will typically see options for: download sql server developer edition 2012
Go to: https://my.visualstudio.com/Downloads The SQL Server Installation Center will open
Use your personal Microsoft Account (Outlook, Hotmail) or your work/school account. If you do not have an account, you will need to create a free "Visual Studio Dev Essentials" account. If you do not have an account, you
SQL Server 2012 Developer Edition is now considered a legacy product. While it was a cornerstone for database development when released, it reached , and will reach its final Extended Security Update (ESU) expiration on July 8, 2025 . Review: SQL Server 2012 Developer Edition
SQL Server 2012 is no longer in mainstream support. For new projects, consider using a newer version (2017, 2019, or 2022). However, if you need 2012 for legacy system compatibility, follow the steps below.