How do I connect to a database in SSMS?

How do I connect to a SQL Server Management Studio database?

Connect to a SQL Server instance Start SQL Server Management Studio. The first time you run SSMS, the Connect to Server window opens. If it doesn't open, you can open it manually by selecting Object Explorer > Connect > Database Engine. For Server type, select Database Engine (usually the default option).

How do I open an existing database in SSMS?

To open an existing solution1On the File menu, point to Open, and then click Project/Solution.2In the Open Project dialog box, navigate to the solution you want, click the solution, and then click Open.Open an Existing Solution - SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

How do I log into a database server?

In most cases, you can connect by entering the computer name of the database server in the Server name box and then clicking Connect. If you're connecting to a named instance, use the computer name followed by a backslash, and then the instance name. For example, mycomputer\myinstance .

How do I find the database name for SQL Server Management Studio?

Go to Start > Programs > Microsoft SQL Server > Configuration Tools. Locate the running MS SQL Server instance name (circled below in red). This is what you'll need to enter in the record.