Since the last guide was quite popular (over 4k distinct views for SQL Server 2008 R2), I've uploaded to SkyDrive another complete step by step guide for a Microsoft SQL Server installation. This time the Guide is for a SQL Server 2012 with Service Pack 1 installation, because I prefer to see this done correctly, rather than butchered :)
I hope it helps save some time for those dealing with this vast task, including how to install a service pack and where to find the latest downloads. Furthermore, I have incorporated post-installation settings and validation, thus as Robert Davis states, you can 'put a better SQL Server into Production.'
Here is the Guide also in an Embedded Version:
Enjoy, comments to improve are welcome :)
