Can't even create a new SQL db, despite SQL Server 2005 installed.

I've just installed Visual Web Developer Express and SQL Server 2005. I'm running thru the painfully slow video tutorials from Microsoft (see here).

I've open Web Dev and tried to create a new SQL Database Item, only to receive this error:

"Connections to SQL Server files (*.mdf) require SQL Server Express 2005 to function properly. Please verify the installation of the component or download from the URL http://microsoft.com"

I'm totally new to this, but this still makes no sense.

hi Brad,

only SQLExpress is designed to use User Instances, the feature you are supposed to use via all "Express editions" of Visual Studio ..

as you can see, all other SQL Server 2005 editions do not provide this feature so you have to directly code your connection to access these editions, as the builtin designers of Express editions of VS do not grant the possibility to connect to traditionals instances..

or... you can install a SQLExpress instance side by side on your pc..

regards

Cant Connect to Sql Server

Warning extreme newbie.

I am trying to follow a .Net Walk Thru that connects to Sql Server. The SqlConnection, SqlDataAdapter, and DataSet all appear to be working properly, but when the web page opens I get a 'Sql Server Does Not Exist or Access Denied.'

Any ideas would be greatly apprieciated.

fryer

Is the connection string correct (i.e. username, password, server address, etc.) and do you have the correct permissions to access the database?

Ryan|||

Connection Strings: I have used the one generated with the SqlConnection Object and I have modified it many different ways. Integrated Security on & off, By Server name/IP Address. Using a port number & using TCIP/IP. I have also tried my connecting to my local computer and the office server.

Database: I definitely have rights to the database.

Could the problem be how it is connecting, some sort of port disconnect? Could something be overriding my connection string?

Thanks.

fryere