How to Access Any Database in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)
Step 1: Open SSMS
Launch SQL Server Management Studio from the Start menu.
Step 2: Connect to a Server
In the 'Connect to Server' window:
- Server type: Database Engine
- Server name: Enter the server name or IP address (e.g., localhost, .\SQLEXPRESS, or a network server name)
- Authentication: Choose either Windows Authentication or SQL Server Authentication
- Click 'Connect'
Step 3: Expand the Server Node
In the Object Explorer (left pane), expand the connected server node.
Step 4: Expand the Databases Folder
Click the '+' next to 'Databases' to view all available databases on the server.