How to connect to SQL Server from another computer?

Question

Hi,

I want to connect from home using SQL Server 2005 to another PC.

I had a look on the msd...but before connecting it says I should connect to another computer using the computer management and it didn't work out....I can only connect to computers from my workgroup?

Thanks, Luisa

Answer 1

Right. Both computer should be in a network.

Answer 2

If you want to connect to SQL server remotly you need to use a software - like Sql Server Management studio.

The computers doesn't need to be on the same network - but they must be able to connect each other using a communication protocol like tcp/ip, and the server must be set up to support incoming connection of the type you choose.

if you want to connect to another computer (to browse files ?) you use other tools, and not sql server (you can map a drive and access it through there ect...)

To Enable SQL connection using tcp/ip read this article:

For Sql Express: express For Sql 2008: 2008

Make sure you enable access through the machine firewall as well.

You might need to install either SSMS or Toad on the machine your using to connect to the server. both you can download from their's company web site.

Answer 3

I'll edit my previous answer based on further info supplied. You can clearely ping the remote computer as you can use terminal services.

I've a feeling that port 1433 is being blocked by a firewall, hence your trouble. See TCP Ports Needed for Communication to SQL Server Through a Firewall by Microsoft.

Try using this application to ping your servers ip address and port 1433.

tcping your.server.ip.address 1433

And see if you get a "Port is open" response from tcping.

Ok, next to try is to check SQL Server. RDP onto the SQL Server computer. Start SSMS. Connect to the database. In object explorer (usually docked on the left) right click on the server and click properties.

Goto the Connections settings and make sure "Allow remote connections to this server" is ticket.