SQL Network Interfaces, error: 26 - Error Locating Server, SQL Server Configuration Manager Missing

Question

I have downloaded SSMS on my window 10 laptop. But I have error message below.

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)   
(Microsoft SQL Server, Error: -1)  

I have checked the various Forum questions and noticed that SQL Server Configuration Manager is not downloaded. Many answers were related to find SQL Server Configuration Manager under Services and Application in Computer Management (This PC) . However my laptop does not show. Is there a way that I can download the SQL Server Configuration Manager? I can't find standalone file. Thank you for your help.

As you can see below,

Answer 1

noticed that SQL Server Configuration Manager is not downloaded.

The Configuration Manager comes with SQL Server installation.
SSMS = SQL Server Management Studio is just a tool/frontend, not the SQL Server itself.

You can install the free Express Edition of SQL Server: Microsoft® SQL Server® 2019 Express

Answer 2

Hi @SensibleMAneuDA ，

SQL Server Configuration Manager Missing

Please find the file C:\Windows\System32 folder, find out if the SQLServerManager15.msc file exists(corresponding to the SQL Server 2019 version), you can double-click o it and also can make a shortcut on the desktop if you want.
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sql/relational-databases/sql-server-configuration-manager?view=sql-server-ver15

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

1) Make sure your server name is correct, e.g., no typo on the name.
2) Make sure your instance name is correct and there is actually such an instance on your target machine. [Update: Some application converts \ to . If you are not sure about your application, please try both ServerInstance and Server\Instance in your connection string ]
3) Make sure the server machine is reachable, e.g, DNS can be resolve correctly, you are able to ping the server (not always true).
4) Make sure SQL Browser service is running on the server.
5) If firewall is enabled on the server, you need to put sqlbrowser.exe and/or UDP port 1434 into exception.

https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/sql-server-blog/sql-network-interfaces-error-26-error-locating-server-instance/ba-p/383277

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