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How to fix error: 26 - Error Locating Server/Instance Specified

Kai Lin 0 Reputation points
2025-01-04T09:47:17.1633333+00:00

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How to fix it, this is my own computer. When I first open it, it works. But when I re-open it, it didn't with the same setting!

SQL Server
SQL Server
A family of Microsoft relational database management and analysis systems for e-commerce, line-of-business, and data warehousing solutions.
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  1. Erland Sommarskog 115.7K Reputation points MVP
    2025-01-04T10:20:05.68+00:00

    The error message means that SSMS was not able to find the SQL Server instance you were trying to connect to. There are many possible reasons. Here is a sample:

    • Fat-fingering the server and / or the instance name.
    • SQL Server is not running.
    • There is not SQL Server at all installed on the machine.
    • Firewall blocking the way.

    Since we don't know your environment, we cannot easily point to the exact cause in your case. But use this troubleshooter to investigate.

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  2. LiHongMSFT-4306 29,906 Reputation points
    2025-01-06T01:21:21.9366667+00:00

    Hi @Kai Lin

    A network-related or instance-specific error occurred while establishing a connection to SQL Server

    Regarding this issue, this doc provides some steps to help you troubleshoot this issue.

    Best regards,

    Cosmog

    If the answer is the right solution, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".

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