3

I installed a SQL Server 2008 on a machine and created a database on it. Subsequently, the machine that this was installed on was added to a Windows domain and it appears the original local user account that Server Server was install on was renamed or deleted. Now, I'm unable to connect to the database using a domain administrator, newly created local administrator account, or the local system account. When I attempt to expand the database in SQL Server Management Studio I get the error "The database is not accessible. (Object Explorer)". Is there any way I can get access to the database? I want to somehow just make a copy of the .mdf file and recreate it in Management Studio and then just overwrite the newly created one with the copy but I suspect this will maintain the permission issues that I have now. Any ideas are welcome.

Improve this question
2
  • So you can connect to the SQL instance, but can't get into a specific database?
    – squillman
    Commented Feb 24, 2011 at 21:34
  • Correct. When I try to expand the one database that I have I get the error I mentioned.
    – Josh
    Commented Feb 24, 2011 at 22:01

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1

Log into Windows with the old username, but prefix it with the computer's name.

For example:

PCNAME\Username

If that doesn't work, let us know and we can help with the next step.

If you can connect to the SQL instance, can you do so as Administrator? If so, all you have to do is change the owner of the DB. Right-click on the database, go to Properties, then Files, and change the owner there.

Improve this answer
15
  • Thanks but the old user may have been deleted. I'm still investigating whether it was just renamed or deleted altogether. I assume if it was just renamed I should be to login as the renamed user and everything should work but if the user was deleted is there anything that I can do?
    – Josh
    Commented Feb 24, 2011 at 22:03
  • Also, is there a way I can double-check which Windows user account currently owns the database?
    – Josh
    Commented Feb 24, 2011 at 22:03
  • Check my updated answer.
    – user3914
    Commented Feb 24, 2011 at 22:05
  • Joining a domain doesn't rename or delete local user accounts.
    – joeqwerty
    Commented Feb 24, 2011 at 22:11
  • 1
    @joeqwerty - it may have been done as a part of IT policy.
    – user3914
    Commented Feb 24, 2011 at 22:13

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .