Configure the SQL Server .NET Framework Connection

Use this procedure to configure the SQL Server .NET Framework connection.

If you select SQL Server .NET Framework in the Provider list, the .NET Framework Data Provider for SQL Server Connection Properties dialog box displays.

To configure the SQL Server .NET Framework connection:

  1. On the General tab, perform the appropriate set of actions.
    • In the Server Name field, select a server or enter the location of the server where the database you want to access is located.
    • In the Log on the server grid, specify your connection information by performing any of the following actions:
      • Select the Use Windows Authentication option to access the database connection using the login information obtained from the Windows NT network security.
      • Select the Use SQL Server Authentication option to set login information to open the database connection.

        In the User name field and Password field, enter the user ID and password to use for authentication when you log into the connection.

        Note: Entering the user ID in the User name field also enables the Connect to a database grid.
      • Select the Save my password option to save and encrypt your password so that you do not need to enter the password each time you open the connection.
    • Selecting the Use Windows Authentication option enables the Connect to a database grid, where you can perform any of the following actions:
      • Enter or select the name of the database you want to access in the Select or enter a database name field.
      • Enter or select (using the Browse button) the database file name to attach in the Attach a database file field.
      • Enter the name for the database connection in the Logical name field.
  2. On the Advanced tab, set the additional initialization properties for your data.
  3. Click Test Connection to confirm that the connection to your database connection works.
    The Data Tool displays a message box that confirms the database connection.
  4. Click OK.
    If the Data Tool is unable to establish a connection, return to the General tab and check your settings, or consult your database administrator.