1090-Error-Connection failed SQL Server does not exist or access is denied

  • Updated on Feb 6, 2026
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Error: Connection failed SQL Server does not exist or access is denied

Symptom

Affects: SQL Server or MSDE or SQL Server Express

When setting up the database, after entering the connection information, the following error message appears:

"Connection Failed
SQL Server does not exist or access is denied"

Cause

1. The server name entered might be incorrect, or doesn't exist.

2. You might not have the full or correct instance name.

3. The instance name is missing in a full SQL server using named instances.

4. An instance name has been entered where database instance names are not used.

5. If using SQLExpress the instance name is either missing or is not "SQLExpress"�

Resolution

If on a common domain, there is no need to quote the domain name.

Next, type in the server name followed by the instance name, e.g. Server\InstanceName.

Note: To find the server name, right-click the SQL Server icon in the system tray and open the Management Console. The full server name should be at the top.

Please make sure the user account has _dbo rights in MS SQL Server. If your Windows account has _dbo rights, simply check "Use Windows Authentication".

Custom Fields

  • Article ID: TS0143
  • Error message or code: An error appears when Creating a Database Connection and/or Database in SQL Server or MSDE or SQL Server Express
  • Operating System: Windows