How do I run two instances of SQL Server?

Can I have two instances of SQL Server?

You can install multiple instances of SQL Server, or install SQL Server on a computer where earlier SQL Server versions are already installed. The following SQL Server-related items are compatible with the installation of multiple instances on the same computer: Database Engine. Analysis Services.

How do I create multiple instances of SQL Server?

Run the SQL Server installation wizard. On the Instance Name panel of the installation wizard, select Named instance, and then specify a new instance name in the field. Edit your firewall configuration to allow the new instances to communicate through their listening ports.

How do I run a SQL query on multiple instances?

In SQL Server Management Studio, on the View menu, click Registered Servers. Expand a Central Management Server, right-click a server group, point to Connect, and then click New Query. By default, the results pane will combine the query results from all the servers in the server group.

How many instances is SQL Server running?

Go to Start > Programs > Microsoft SQL Server > Configuration Tools. Locate the running MS SQL Server instance name (circled below in red).