How do I configure MS SQL Express Server to allow remote connections?

The following article explains how to configure SQL Express Server to allow remote connections. Remote connections allow users to access their SQL database without needing direct access to the Windows VPS server.

To allow remote connections, please follow these steps:

1. Log into your server through Remote Desktop Connection (instructions for connecting to your server through RDC can be found here).
2. Click Start, Programs, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 and select SQL Server Management Studio Express.
3. Enter the requested information:
   • Server Type: select Database Engine
   • Server Name: this field should be populated by default
   • Authentication: select Windows Authentication
   
4. Click Connect.
5. Right click the server name and select Properties.
6. Click Security.
7. Under Server authentication select SQL Server and Windows Authentication Mode.
8. Click OK.
9. Right click the server name and select Restart. Wait a few moments for the service to restart before proceeding.
10. Click Start, Programs, Microsoft SQL Server 2005, Configuration Tools and select SQL Server Surface Area Configuration.
11. Click Surface Area Configuration for Services and Connections.
12. Expand SQL Server Browser.
13. Change the startup type to Automatic and click Apply.
14. Click Start.
15. Click OK.