I cannot connect to my local SQL Server Express (2012, but the version shouldn't matter) from my server (Windows 2008 R2) to use a tool on it (APEX SQL Data Diff if you are wondering). I can browse the network servers fine, and select my local instance from the dropdown of available servers, but when I go to search tables on the server, it times out with this error message (same is true of SSMS).
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: 28 – Server doesn't support strong text
requested protocol) (Microsoft SQL Server, Error: -1)
I have enabled the firewall – that's not it.
I have allowed remote connections – that's not it.
SQL Server Browser service is on and passed through the firewall – that's not it.
I can connect fine with the same tools TO the server, but FROM the server it fails.
Any ideas?
Best Answer
I had this error while trying to connect through TCP. But TCP was already enabled and services restarted. In my case I had to enable dynamic ports on the TCP Connection:
Screenshot: