Alternative SQL Enterprise Manager

Access 2000 and later is capable of administering SQL Server databases. Access is a commercial product of Microsoft and must be purchased. The cost of MS Office is about $ 500 and includes Access. A stand-alone copy of Access Database is about $200.

Obviously this is an alternative for those with an existing copy of Access.

How to Administer SQL Server with Microsoft Access 2K

When opening Access select 'Access database wizards, pages, and projects.'

The 'NEW' dialog opens with the Databases tab selected. Change to the General tab.

Select 'Project (Existing Database).' This will open a new dialog.

Once Project (Existing Databases) is selected the Data Link Properties dialog will open. Shown to left.

Enter your SQL Server name.

Select Use a specific user name and password and enter your ID and password. You will need to uncheck the 'Blank password' option.

Enter the DSN name of the database as the 'Select the database on the server.'

Use the Test Connection button to verify you have the entries correct.

You should be able to connect to your database. Remember. The view from Access is different than from SQL Enterprise Manager.

Access 2000 offers some options that SQL Enterprise Manager does not appear to have.

Other Alternatives