Cannot connect to a named instance of SQL 2000 or 2005

Hi,

I am struggling connection to a named instance of SQL 2000 (SP4) from another machine but without any success. I get an error message saying that the server does not exist or access is denied.

The security configuration in this named instance is the same as the default instance (also 2000) and the remote machine can connect to it successfully.

I also configured the aliases in Client Network Utility in the client machine and set the server (machine) name and the port number used by the instance - but no help.

I use osql and Query Analyzer to connect to it, but I cannot connect by any of them.

Connecting locally, in the machine where the instance is installed, is successful.

The same behaviour appears when I try to connect to another instance on the machine which is 2005.

Something with the named instance is problematic.

Any help?

Hi,

What OSQL string did you use to connect to SQL Server. If you have a named instance you probably have another port number assigned to the additional service to listen to the network. If so, you have to prvide the port number while connecting to the server.

OSQL -SServername,Portnumber <otherparams>

HTH, Jens Suessmeyer.

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Thanks Jens.

I think I found the problem. it is all about Win XP SP2 firewall clocking TCP/IP connections to SQL Server.

All the asweres are in Microsfot KB articles:

841394 (http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb;en-us;841394&spid=2855&sid=332)

841252 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/841252/)

841251 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/841251/)

and the other relevant artickles referred there.