How to solve error 26 unable to Locating sql server/Instance ?

Question

Hi,

I am getting  a error message when trying to open the table in server explorer the error is:

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: SQL Network Interfaces, error: 26 - Error Locating Server/Instance Specified)

How to solve this?

Answer 1

Hi,

I think you have connectivity problem, try to reconnect again and make sure your write the correct instance name.

I hope this is helpful.

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Answer 2

Hello,

For every problem of connectivity , you should find an explanation ( and solution ) in http://blogs.msdn.com/b/sql_protocols/

For example :

http://blogs.msdn.com/b/sql_protocols/archive/2008/04/30/steps-to-troubleshoot-connectivity-issues.aspx

and

http://blogs.msdn.com/b/sql_protocols/archive/2007/05/13/sql-network-interfaces-error-26-error-locating-server-instance-specified.aspx 

It is a pity to see so many people ignoring the existence of this blog ( maybe beause of the way used by Google or Bing to present the "potentially useful" articles about this topic ) 

If you look at the sticky thread ( the 3rd one if my memory is not failing ) , you will find a post sending you to the SQL Protocols blog. The stiky threads exist to help potential posters to find a solution to their problems. On this forum, you will find people who help people who have problems of connectivity, but a little search by the original poster will avoid to repeat always the same replies and links.

Moreover , your question is not clear : what do you mean with "when trying to open the table in server explorer " ? Are you using SQL Server Management Studio ( in shortcut SSMS or SSMSE if SQL Server Management Studio Express ) to connect ? Which is the version ( 2000, 2005, 2008, 2008 R2, 2012 ) and edition ( MSDE,Express but which one?, Web, Standard,Entreprise,Datacenter ) ? For example, SQL Server Express has some specific onnectivity problems. I think that all these informations are useful and should be always provided.

I would suggest you to insert SQL Protocols Blog in your favorites if you want to use SQL Server frequently.

We are waiting for your feedback to try to help you more efficiently.

Have a nice day

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Answer 3

Also, for basic configuration and connection: Tutorial: Getting Started with the Database Engine 

For advanced troubleshooting: How to Troubleshoot Connecting to the SQL Server Database Engine  

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Rick Byham, Microsoft, SQL Server Books Online, Implies no warranty