SQL Server Browser for SQL Server 2012 12.3.6024

Microsoft Corporation ❘ Commercial ❘
Windows
Rank 1 among competitors

Efficient Database Management Tool for SQL Server 2012 Users

David Fischer

04/06/2023

SQL Server Browser by Microsoft Corporation is a reliable software application designed to enhance database management tasks for SQL Server 2012 users.

The SQL Server Browser by Microsoft Corporation is a utility used to assist with connecting to instances of SQL Server that are running on the same computer. It allows clients to discover and connect to named instances of SQL Server that are running on the server, even if port 1433 is blocked or if the server is configured to use dynamic ports. The SQL Server Browser makes it easier for clients to determine the port that each named instance is listening on and facilitates communication between the client and the SQL Server instance.

The SQL Server Browser service listens for incoming requests for Microsoft SQL Server resources and provides information about instances of SQL Server that are installed on the computer. Clients may connect to an instance of SQL Server by specifying the name of the instance in the connection string rather than specifying the port number. This makes it easier for developers who may not have access to ports on a network to connect to SQL Server instances.

The SQL Server Browser is automatically installed with every instance of SQL Server 2012 and is set to start automatically when Windows starts. Users may disable this service if they are not using named instances or if they prefer to manually specify port numbers rather than use the browser. However, it is recommended that the browser be enabled if there are any named instances, as clients may not be able to connect otherwise.

Provides a means for clients to discover named instances of SQL Server installed on a server
Allows clients to connect to named instances without having to specify port numbers
Is installed with every instance of SQL Server 2012 and is set to start automatically

Overview

SQL Server Browser for SQL Server 2012 is a Commercial software in the category Communications developed by Microsoft Corporation.

The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked SQL Server Browser for SQL Server 2012 for updates 3,142 times during the last month.

The latest version of SQL Server Browser for SQL Server 2012 is 12.3.6024, released on 06/01/2020. It was initially added to our database on 05/06/2012. The most prevalent version is 12.0.2000.8, which is used by 34% of all installations.

SQL Server Browser for SQL Server 2012 runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

SQL Server Browser for SQL Server 2012 has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

Allows clients to discover and connect to named instances of SQL Server.
Supports multiple versions of SQL Server for improved compatibility.
Enables network administrators to efficiently manage network configuration for SQL Server instances.

Cons

Can be a security risk if not properly configured.
May introduce additional network traffic and overhead.
Requires additional resources to run and maintain.

FAQ

What is SQL Server Browser?

SQL Server Browser is a component of SQL Server 2012 by Microsoft Corporation that allows clients to locate and connect to SQL Server instances on a network.

Why is SQL Server Browser important?

SQL Server instances can be configured to listen on a specific port, which can make it difficult for clients to connect if they do not know the exact port number. SQL Server Browser allows clients to connect without needing to know the port number.

How does SQL Server Browser work?

SQL Server Browser listens on UDP port 1434 and responds to requests from clients asking for information about SQL Server instances running on the network. It provides the port number and instance name for each instance.

Is SQL Server Browser required for connecting to SQL Server?

No, it is not required. If clients know the exact port number, they can connect directly to an instance without using SQL Server Browser.

Where is SQL Server Browser installed?

SQL Server Browser is installed as a Windows service on the server that hosts the instance of SQL Server.

Is SQL Server Browser secure?

SQL Server Browser is designed to be secure. It only responds to requests that come from localhost or from clients on the same subnet as the server. It also does not provide any sensitive information about the instances it is monitoring.

Can SQL Server Browser be disabled?

Yes, it can be disabled. However, doing so may make it difficult for clients to locate and connect to SQL Server instances on the network.

Does SQL Server Browser work with all versions of SQL Server?

No, SQL Server Browser was first introduced in SQL Server 2005 and is only available in later versions.

Can SQL Server Browser be used across different domains or network boundaries?

Yes, it can be used across different domains or network boundaries as long as the necessary firewall ports are open and there are no security restrictions preventing communication between the client and server.

Is there any cost associated with using SQL Server Browser?

No, there is no additional cost associated with using SQL Server Browser. It is included as part of SQL Server.

David Fischer

I am a technology writer for UpdateStar, covering software, security, and privacy as well as research and innovation in information security. I worked as an editor for German computer magazines for more than a decade before joining the UpdateStar team. With over a decade of editorial experience in the tech industry, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my current role at UpdateStar. At UpdateStar, I focus on the critical areas of software, security, and privacy, ensuring our readers stay informed about the latest developments and best practices.

Latest Reviews by David Fischer

Installations

3,142 users of UpdateStar had SQL Server Browser for SQL Server 2012 installed last month.

Alternatives

Microsoft SQL Server Browser

Streamline database management with Microsoft SQL Server Browser

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