How to Start SQL in Single User Mode

Starting SQL server in single-user mode allows database administrators to perform maintenance and troubleshoot issues. When SQL server is started in single-user mode, only one person can connect to the database. It disconnects other users from the database, and it only allows the administrator to access it.

Instructions

1. Open the Services window. Click the Windows "Start" button, select "Administrative Tools," and select "Services."

2. Select the MSSQL service. In the listbox, scroll down to the service named "SQL Server" and click it.

3. Click the "Properties" button. This opens a service window where you can change the settings of the installed service executable.

4. Take note of the SQL instance name in the "Service Name" section. The name has a specific format like the below.

   MSSQL$<instance_name>

   The text after the dollar sign is used in the startup parameters in the next steps.

5. Add the startup parameters in the textbox. At the bottom of the window, enter the following text:

   -s{ <instance_name> -m

   Replace <instance_name> with the name from step 4.

6. Restart the SQL server application. Click the "Stop" button and startup the service again by pressing the "Start" button. The changes are now in place.

7. Press the "Ok" button to close the services window.

References

• Databk.com