Can't connect remotely to database on SQL Server 2005

Question

Hey Guys,

I am new to managing servers but I have just been given full access to set up an MS SQL Database on win server 2003. I have created a Database successfully and can connect locally (via remote desktop server)

Problem is I can't connect to the database from my personal computer (remotely, via ms sql server management studio). I have followed several tutorials such as: http://blog.sqlauthority.com/2009/05/21/sql-server-fix-error-provider-named-pipes-provider-error-40-could-not-open-a-connection-to-sql-server-microsoft-sql-server-error/

The error I am receiving is:

Cannot connect to 'servername'

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

A network-related or instance-specific error occurred while establishing a connection to SQL Server. The server was not found or was not accessible. Verify that the instance name is correct and that SQL Server is configured to allow remote connections. (provider: Named Pipes Provider, error: 40 - Could not open a connection to SQL Server) (Microsoft SQL Server, Error: 53)

Any help will be great, thanks!

Answer 1

"SQL Server is configured to allow remote connections"

You need to enable remote tcp/ip connections in sql surface area configuration. It's new in 2005 and then dropped in 2008.

If that doesn't work, you either have a network issue are are perhaps giving the wrong name - maybe you installed a named instance?