Reset SQL Server SA Password: Easy Methods Explained

Reasons to Change SQL SA Password

• The SA account controls all SQL Server operations.
• Without SA login, you cannot manage databases, tables, or users.
• Resetting forgotten or compromised SA passwords protects sensitive data.
• Also, quick access to avoids downtime and operational delays.

Method 01: Reset SQL Server SA Password Using SSMS

If you are already logged in with another admin account, SSMS is the easiest way to reset the SA password. Here is how you can perform it:

1. Firstly, open SQL Server Management Studio and log in with an admin account.
2. After that, expand Security and click Logins.
3. Then, right-click the SA account and choose Properties.
4. In the General tab, enter a new password.
5. Now, confirm the password and click OK.
6. Optionally, make sure Login is enabled.

Pros:

• Easy to follow, even for beginners.
• Can reset SA password without stopping SQL Server services.

Cons:

• Requires another administrator account to perform the reset.
• Cannot be used if all admin accounts are inaccessible.

Important Tips for Resetting SA Password:

• Use a strong password with letters, numbers, and symbols.
• If SA login is disabled, enable it in the Status tab.
• Moreover, avoid reusing old passwords.

What If SQL Server Is Damaged or Corrupted?

Sometimes, SQL Server databases can become corrupted due to hardware failure, unexpected shutdowns, or malware. In such cases, even resetting the SA password will not allow you to access your data. To recover and reset the SA password safely, you can use DRS SQL Database Recovery Tool. This professional tool can:

• Repair corrupted SQL database files without losing data.
• Restore all tables, views, stored procedures, and triggers.
• Allow access to the SA account after recovery.
• Safely extract data from inaccessible databases.
• Helps to fix Recovery Pending State in SQL Server Database.
• Furthermore, work with all SQL Server versions, including 2012, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2022.

Step-By-Step Guide to Use DRS SQL Database Recovery Tool:

1. Primarily, download and install the DRS SQL Recovery Tool.
2. After that, click on Open to add damaged/corrupt SQL file.
3. Then, choose Recovery Modes & other options. Click OK.
4. Now, you can preview all the recovered SQL database file.
5. Lastly, choose Saving Format and click OK to complete the process.

Conclusion

In this technical blog post, we explored several methods to Reset SQL Server SA Password. Resetting the SQL Server SA password is crucial when access is lost. If you have another admin account, SSMS or SQLCMD can quickly reset it. For damaged or inaccessible databases, DRS SQL Database Recovery Tool is the safest option. Always follow best practices to secure your SA account and maintain backups. In the end, by using these methods, you can recover SQL passwords safely, prevent downtime, and ensure uninterrupted database management.

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