Database Connection: Failure to access DBMS server

Error Message

While trying to connect to a SQL Server database in ArcGIS Pro, the connection fails with the following error:

“Database Connection: Failure to access DBMS server”

This typically indicates that ArcGIS Pro cannot establish communication with the SQL Server database.

Cause

This error may occur due to:

• Incorrect SQL Server name or instance
• Network connectivity or firewall restrictions
• SQL Server service not running or inaccessible
• Incorrect database username or password
• Incorrect authentication type selected

Solution or Workaround

• Verify the SQL Server name/instance is correct, for example, SERVERNAME or SERVERNAME\INSTANCE, and check for typographical errors.
• Confirm the SQL Server service is running or contact the database administrator to verify the server is online.
• Re-enter and validate database login credentials (username and password).
• Verify the authentication type selected in ArcGIS Pro is correct (Database Authentication or Operating System Authentication) based on the database configuration.
• Confirm connection to the correct network/VPN and ensure the server is accessible.
• Re-create the connection in ArcGIS Pro:
  • Go to Catalog > Databases > Add Database Connection
  • Enter the connection details again and click Validate