Losing access to SQL Server can be a challenging situation, especially when the SA login is unavailable or the original administrator is no longer present to grant access. This issue commonly arises in environments where the database was set up by someone else, and no active credentials are available. Fortunately, there is a reliable method to regain SQL Server access using Command Prompt (CMD) and SQLCMD mode.
By restarting SQL Server in single-user mode, you can create a new sysadmin login and restore administrative access. This approach is particularly useful when dealing with lost SA credentials, server lockouts, or inherited databases with unknown passwords. However, before proceeding, there are two essential requirements: administrative access to the server (to restart SQL Server services) and SQL Server installed with SQLCMD available on your machine.
Once these prerequisites are in place, you can follow a structured process to restore access, regain sysadmin privileges, and secure your SQL Server instance. The snippet below provides a step-by-step guide to executing this recovery method effectively.
- You will need administrator permissions on the machine
- There SQL Service will be stopped then started in single user mode, Connections will be affected.
- When the SQL Service is up, it will Default privlides to those of the machine. This means, you will have access to the service, you will then create an SA user with the password of your choice to regain access.
If you’re a DBA trying to regain access to a single-user mode database, you know how frustrating it can be when other processes hijack your session. The moment SQL Server starts in single-user mode, any lingering query, background process, or automated job can take control, locking you out before you even get a chance to connect.
What makes this script more reliable is that it starts SQL Server in single-user mode and explicitly directs the connection to SQLCMD. This ensures that no other process can interfere with your session, allowing you to execute the necessary commands without competition. By structuring the process this way, you prevent unexpected lockouts and regain control smoothly.
For best results, it’s recommended to run each command one line at a time, ensuring that SQL Server fully transitions through each step without interruptions. This method increases the chances of a successful recovery, making it one of the most effective approaches for regaining sysadmin access in SQL Server.