Restore a SQL Server database to an offline copy I have SQL Server Management Studio. I need to access a backup file (*.bak).  

How do I create a new database engine that is OFFLINE (running from my PC not the server) and then restore the database to that offline database engine?
Install SQL Server, if it isn't already there.
Get the backup file onto you local box.
Open SSMS and connect to your local instance
Right-click the "Databases" folder and pick "Restore Database..."
Follow the wizard until you're done