SQL Server 2012 has different editions including Express, Workgroup, Standard, and Enterprise editions. It requires minimum software like .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 and 4.0, Windows PowerShell 2.0, and Internet Explorer 7. The hardware requirements are a minimum of 6GB hard disk space, 800x600 screen resolution, 1GB RAM for most editions, and a 1.0GHz processor or higher. The document proceeds to outline the steps to install SQL Server 2012.