SQL Server 2014 Express Set Up

Question

I have downloaded Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio 2014 Express. I have set it up and I now need to connect to the server. I think my server name has something to do with my computer name but its not working. How do I get in?

This seems like it might be more appropriate for [Server Fault](http://serverfault.com/), or else you need some more details about why this is programming related. — Matthew Haugen, Jul 18 '14 at 19:45
I consider this manual extremly useful https://dyball.wordpress.com/2014/04/05/error-installing-sql-express-2012-or-error-installing-sql-express-2014/ — NoWar, Sep 03 '15 at 01:43

score 5 · Accepted Answer · answered Jul 18 '14 at 19:52

5

Assuming you installed SQL Server, and not just SSMS please read this:

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms143531(v=sql.120).aspx

In all likelihood it was setup with the default instance name of \SQLExpress. So to connect, you would enter machinename\SQLExpress.

Ex: Office-PC1\SQLExpress

If you specify MSSQLServer for the instance name, a default instance will be created. For SQL Server Express, if you specify SQLExpress for the instance name, a default instance will be created.

NB: If you open the "Server Name" drop down in the SSMS "Connect To Server" window, there is a "Browse for more..." option which should help you find your installed server.

answered Jul 18 '14 at 19:52

Dave C

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I've tried it and it doesn't work, there is also nothing in the browse for more window – Chris Jul 18 '14 at 20:00
Did you actually install SQL Server? – Dave C Jul 18 '14 at 20:02
yes I did, do I need to do something in the configuration manager? – Chris Jul 18 '14 at 20:03
Can I suggest going to the command line and type `net start` and see if "SQL Server" comes up? Maybe the service isnt started. – Kris Gruttemeyer Jul 18 '14 at 20:07
Was just about to say open services.msc and make sure MSSQLSERVER is started :) – Dave C Jul 18 '14 at 20:09
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Great minds. As a DBA, i start with the simplest solutions first, I've been guilty of not actually starting the service before. – Kris Gruttemeyer Jul 18 '14 at 20:10
What is the name of the executable you installed? – Dave C Jul 18 '14 at 20:24

score 0 · Answer 2 · answered Jul 18 '14 at 19:46

0

Assuming you actually installed the db server, and NOT just the management tools, you can always use "localhost" (without the quotes). Have you made sure you are using port 1433? I am not sure if that was a question during the setup.

answered Jul 18 '14 at 19:46

Scott Plude

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score 0 · Answer 3 · edited Aug 31 '15 at 14:19

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localhost/SQLExpress in SSMS (SQL Server Management Studio)

edited Aug 31 '15 at 14:19

Raúl Otaño

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answered Aug 31 '15 at 14:01

user2611407

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SQL Server 2014 Express Set Up

3 Answers3