The replicator is not shipped with any sample MS Access databases, but there are some samples that are readily available.
⬇️ Microsoft Northwind Sample Database
🛢️ Northwind for SQL Server
Microsoft hosts the Northwind sample database scripts on GitHub. This is the current, recommended source.
Primary URL github.com/Microsoft/sql-server-samples/…/northwind-pubs
- What to download: The script file
instnwnd.sql. - How to use: Run the script in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or Azure Data Studio to create and populate the Northwind database on your SQL Server instance.
📌 This repository also includes the older "pubs" sample database.
📁 Northwind for Microsoft Access
The Access version is not available as a direct download link from Microsoft's website. You must get it through the Access application itself.
📋 How to get it:
- Open Microsoft Access.
- Go to File > New.
- In the Search for Online Templates box, type
"Northwind"and press Enter. - Select the Northwind template from the search results.
- Choose a filename and location, then click Create. Access will download and set up the database automatically.
✅ This gives you the full Northwind Traders sample database with forms, reports, and sample data.
📦 Older (Legacy) Microsoft Download Links
Microsoft also maintains archive pages for older Northwind downloads. These provide a .exe installer that extracts the database files. Use these only if you need the classic package.
SQL Server (Northwind + Pubs) microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=06616212-…
Access (Northwind Traders Sample) microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=c6661372-…
⚠️ These pages are legacy and may not be updated for newer SQL Server versions. The GitHub script is preferred for SQL Server.
• SQL Server → GitHub script (
instnwnd.sql)• Access → via File > New > search "Northwind" inside the Access app.
• Legacy .exe → available at the two Microsoft Download Center links above.
📅 Last checked: August 2026 – all URLs are current as of this date.