Change a Sql-Server (express) from a named instance to localhost?

Question

Is there a way to change a mssql express from a named instance to localhost?

When first installing the server I gave my mssql express server, a name. Now, working on a project where the web.config specifcs the localhost, or (local), I have to edit all of these before I migrate the db or run the application.

To connect to my database, I have to specify my instance instead of localhost like so: MyComputerName\Instance;Database=db_name;"

I would like to simply use: localhost;Database=db_name; This currently does not work.

I don't want to have to re-install mssql, however I have considered this an option if no other options are avaiable.

I am using "Microsoft SQL Server Express Edition with Advanced Services" version 10.50.2550.0

Answer 1

If you don't specify an instance name when connecting to a server, it will look at port 1433.

By default, the MSSQLSERVER instance (i.e. the default) will be assigned this static port.

By default, any named instances will be assigned dynamic ports which are discovered using the SQL Server Browser service.

You might not be able to rename an instance, but you can change its port number.

For your named instance, you need to set it to the static default SQL Server port, i.e. 1433. Obviously TCP/IP will need to be enabled for the instance:

Once you've done this, should be able to connect to localhost without supplying a name as it will just try and connect to 1433.