Can I run SQL Server 2005 x86 on Windows Server 2003 x64?

I have to build a new corporate SQL server. Can I run SQL Server 2005 x86 on Windows Server 2003 x64?

If I can, is this a good or bad idea? For example, are there performance implications?

Yes, that is a supported configuration. You can verify from:

SQL Server 2005 Installation Requirements (Hardware/Software)
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms143506.aspx

I would, however, recommend a 64 bit SQL Server in order to better utilize the server memory. And there are also performance considerations related a 32bit application running in WOW on a 64 bit OS.

If you objective is to get all performance possible, get the 64 bit SQL Server and start out on the 'right foot'.

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Thanks very much. I couldn't find anything on the main SQL Server site.