When trying to connect to your SQL Server database, you receive an error similar to the following:
A connection could not be established - Client unable to establish connection
ConnectionOpen(CreateFile())..
Please verify SQL Server is running and check your SQL Server registration properties...
-OR- [Microsoft]Client unable to establish connection
This problem is caused when your SQL Server client utilities are configured to use a default network protocol other than TCP/IP.
Resolution
Follow these steps to resolve the problem:
- From Windows, click the Start button, then Programs, then Microsoft SQL Server 7.0, then Client Network Utility. The SQL Server Client Network Utility dialog appears.
- From the tabs at the top of the dialog, click General.
- Find the list box labeled Default network library and select TCP/IP from the list.
- Click the OK button.