If you install SharePoint 2013 Preview by running the prerequisite installer (Microsoft SharePoint Products Preparation Tool) and you see this line in the log file:

Error: The tool was unable to install Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1 Native Client.

Use these steps to work around the problem:

  • Go to http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkId=262370 and manually download and install the Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 SP1 Native Client (1033\x64\sqlncli.msi).

    Important! Do not download and use 1033\IA64\sqlncli.msi or 1033\x86\sqlncli.msi. These versions are not supported for this preview release.

  • Run the Microsoft SharePoint Products Preparation Tool again.