Creating a new SQL Server database connection in ArcGIS Pro causes error "Conflicting partial connection parameters"

Description

In ArcGIS Pro, when making a new database connection to a SQL Server database for the Database Administorator (sa), the process fails when attempting to activate the drop-down Database list with the error:

Conflicting partial connection parameters

Cause

There are multiple potential causes, including:

• Cached settings in ArcGIS Pro
• Incorrect parameters for the database connection
• Unsteady network connectivity

Solution or Workaround

Cached settings in ArcGIS Pro

• Go to the Project tab > Options.  In the Application > Display window, check the box to "clear cache."  ArcGIS Pro must be restarted for this to take effect. 

Incorrect parameters for the database connection

• Ensure that all required fields in the database connection dialog are correct:
  • Database Platform: Confirm that "SQL Server" is selected.
  • Instance: Ensure the SQL Server instance name or IP address is correct. If a port number is required, include it in the format: server_name,port_number
  • Authentication Type: Ensure "Database Authentication" is selected.
  • Username and Password: Verify the "sa" username and password are correct.
  • Database: Ensure the correct database name is selected or entered.

Unsteady network connectivity

• Confirm basic connectivity with the "ping" command or "Test-NetConnection".
• Attempt to connect to the database as "sa" using SQL Server Management Studio or ODBC Data Source Administrator.
• Start SQL Server Configuration Manager and ensure that the instance has the TCP/IP network protocol enabled.