Even though MSDE is free you still have to have (as a developer) a version of SQL Server that installs the development tools, like Enterprise Manager, Query Analyzer and the Profiler. You can get one of these for the lowest price of around $500 to $600. There are other tricks you can do like use Access to manage the database but I've never had the guts to try something like that.

Anyway ... to verify the installation of SQL Server MSDE

1. Go to SQL Enterprise Manager

2. Expand the console root tree as follows:
a. Microsoft SQL Servers
b. SQL Server Group
c. Until you get to the running version of your Server

3. Right click on your server and choose properties
4. Verify that the build number is as follows
No SP: 8.00.194
SP 1: 8.00.384
SP 2: 8.00.534

Hope this sheads some light on the subject.

CTBlankenship
AIIZ Consulting