SQL Server Configuration Manager: Set an instance to start automatically

Applies to: SQL Server

This article describes how to set an instance of SQL Server to start automatically in SQL Server by using SQL Server Configuration Manager. During setup, SQL Server is normally configured to start automatically. If this was not done, you can change that setting at any time.

Use SQL Server Configuration Manager

Set an instance of SQL Server to start automatically

  1. On the Start menu, point to All Programs, point to Microsoft SQL Server, point to Configuration Tools, and then select SQL Server Configuration Manager.

    Because SQL Server Configuration Manager is a snap-in for the Microsoft Management Console program and not a stand-alone program, SQL Server Configuration Manager doesn't appear as an application in newer versions of Windows.

    Operating system Details
    Windows 10 and Windows 11 To open SQL Server Configuration Manager, on the Start Page, type SQLServerManager16.msc (for SQL Server 2022 (16.x)). For other versions of SQL Server, replace 16 with the appropriate number. Selecting SQLServerManager16.msc opens the Configuration Manager. To pin the Configuration Manager to the Start Page or Task Bar, right-click SQLServerManager16.msc, and then select Open file location. In the Windows File Explorer, right-click SQLServerManager16.msc, and then select Pin to Start or Pin to taskbar.
    Windows 8 To open SQL Server Configuration Manager, in the Search charm, under Apps, type SQLServerManager<version>.msc, such as SQLServerManager16.msc, and then press Enter.
  2. In SQL Server Configuration Manager, expand Services, and then select SQL Server.

  3. In the details pane, right-click the name of the instance you want to start automatically, and then select Properties.

  4. In the SQL Server <instancename> Properties dialog box, set Start Mode to Automatic.

  5. Select OK, and then close SQL Server Configuration Manager.