We have server 2012 essentials operating as a domain controller and vpn file server. While trying to install a database program that uses sql server 2008r2 we encountered errors launching the sql server service attached to this program. I found that upgrading from sp1 which installs as default from the program to sp3 should fix the problem, however the database seems to have become corrupted in the process. I decided to try and start from scratch, however I cant uninstall sql server 2008 r2. 

When i go to uninstall I see:

When I select the redistributable and click next I get this:

I have tried every online fix short of creating a .bat to remove, which i don't want to do since I don't really trust my coding skills on that. We are at the point where we think we have to refresh to factory on the server, any advice would be great! Thank you in advance.

Hi

 Did you try to install sql on essential DC.so sql installation does not Support on Domain Controller.You should install sql on a member server.

Also seems you could not install sql and there aren't any sql role on server,you need to delete the folders and registry records.

• Edited by Burak Uur 10 hours 55 minutes ago

Hi,

According to your description, my understanding is that it is failed to install a database program(uses SQL server 2008 R2 ) when launching the SQL server service attached to this program on Windows Server 2012 essentials.

And now you want to uninstall SQL 2008 R2. You may reference below link to manually uninstall it:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/955404

Besides, your question is mainly about SQL, I recommend you to post on SQL forum for official support:
https://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/home?forum=sqlsetupandupgrade%2Csqlgetstarted&filter=alltypes&sort=lastpostdesc
 
As official document described, SQL 2008 R2 is supported by Windows Server 2012 Essentials(DC on Essentials domain). Also, for security and performance reasons, SQL is not recommended to be installed on DC. reference - You may encounter problems when installing SQL Server on a domain controller for details:
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/2032911

Best Regards,
Eve Wang