Configuring MSDE Network Access

Microsoft SQL Server Desktop Engine (MSDE) is a database platform, a toned down version of Microsoft SQL Server 2000 which is free for non-commercial use as well as certain limited commercial use.

To access MSDE over a network, the database engine must be configured to use specific network transports supported by SQL. The following network transports used by SQL can be used by MSDE for network connections:

• Named Pipes
• TCP/IP
• Multiprotocol
• NWLink IPX/SPX
• ApppleTalk
• Banyan VINES

Use the Regkey method to enable one or more network transports to be used for MSDE connections:

Warning: Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly by using Registry Editor or by using another method. These problems might require that you reinstall your operating system. Modify the registry at your own risk.

For example, to enable use of the Named Pipes and TCP/IP protocols by using the Regkey method, follow these steps:

1. Login to the Windows Server as administrator.
2. Click Start, and then click Run.
3. In the Run dialog box, type regedit, and then click OK. This will start Registry Editor.
4. Locate the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MSSQLSERVER\ MSSQLSERVER\SuperSocketNetLib\ProtocolList registry key. This key will house the network transport names MSDE is configured to use. Specify the following value string for the key:

   np, tcp

5. Quit Registry Editor.