Installing SQL Server Management Studio

SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is the official utility with which SQL Server instances and databases can be managed. We recommend installing it on a client workstation and managing instances remotely to limit the impact on the server's performance.

SSMS can be installed on the server that hosts the instance, but only for one-off troubleshooting purposes.

1. Download the latest version of the installation program.
2. Run the installation program.
3. Once the installation is complete, restart the workstation.
4. Open SSMS and check whether you are able to connect to the instance locally.