Network Management

Verify the SQL and Orion server connectivity using the UDL file

Unable to connect to SQL Database. Cannot connect. SQL Connection.

First published date

10/22/2018 9:28 AM

Last published date

6/12/2026 3:16 PM

Overview

This procedure can be used to verify SQL connection after receiving a message such as: 
  • Unable to connect to SQL database
  • Unable to establish SQL server connection
  • Unable to open new database connection
  • Cannot connect to SQL database

Product section

Orion Platform

Cause

Network issues, SQL server/agent issues, or the database is offline.

Resolution

Right-click on the Windows Desktop, hover over 'New' and click Text Document.

Rename the three-letter file extension .txt to .udl.

For example, change test.txt to test.udl.

You can also open a command prompt (CMD) and type the following:

cd desktop

rename test.txt test.udl
 

** If the above does not successfully create the .udl file, try the steps below.

  • Open a new blank text file in Notepad.
  • Click File > Save As.
  • Enter test.udl as the file name.
  • Set Save as type to All Files (.).
  • Click Save.

 

Because you are changing the extension, you will be prompted

Click Yes. Double-click the test.udl file to open the Data Link Properties window.

Enter (or select) the server name, select integrated security or SQL Login, and provide credentials, then select or enter a database name.

If the database is listening on a non-standard port, enter the port number after the server name or IP address, separated by a comma (Example, "MySQLServer, 12345").

Please ensure that you enter the Credentials currently in use by the SolarWinds Platform ( the Credentials entered when running the Configuration Wizard).

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Click the Test Connection button to test connectivity.

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