How to Connect to a Microsoft SQL Server

by Lysis

Overview

Microsoft has always made a nicer interface to send commands to servers. With its SQL Server technology, Microsoft packages the SQL Server Management Console. This software combines a list of databases and tables with a console that provides a command prompt to type SQL code. When connecting to an SQL Server, the software prompts for specific information for security purposes.

Step 1

Start the Management Console. Click the Windows "Start" button, select "Programs," and choose "Microsoft SQL Server." From the menu, choose "Microsoft SQL Server Management Console."
Step 2

Select the engine and server name. To connect to a database, choose "Database Engine." Enter the server name. This is the network name of the server that you use to connect to a network share or ping for information.
Step 3

Select authentication mode. There are two types of authentication in SQL Server. Windows authentication implements the username and password that you use to login to the network. For most SQL server configurations, "SQL Server Authentication" is chosen. This adds an extra layer of security to the database by creating a separate username and password specific to the SQL Server.
Step 4

Type in your username and password. If your SQL server uses SQL authentication, enter the username and password.
Step 5

Login to the SQL Server. Press "Connect." If the information entered is inaccurate, SQL Server will prompt you again for the information.

References & Resources