Cannot Connect to MS SQL Server

[ahraitch]

I’m experimenting with Xampp/SQL/phpMyAdmin and Microsoft_SQL_Server/SSMS. I find the phpMyAdmin interface unfriendly. I have yet to get a connection to the MS_SQL_Server. I have both MS_SQL_Server and SSMS installed and the server is running (I think) based on Task Manager.

I need help understanding why I cannot log into the server. Screenshots below:
Task Manager showing what I think is the server running:

SSMS splash screen and error after clicking CONNECT:

MSSQLSERVER Configuration Screen:

I’ve searched the web without finding an answer. I’ve checked that the system name (HP-MINI-6KGRK19) is the same as I find in Windows Settings>System>about. I know too little about this process to know what else to check. Of the 4 or 5 videos I’ve watched, none went into handling errors. Searching turned up hits that none that seemed to fit my case.

If you could suggest articles or videos I’d be grateful. If there are none, I would appreciate instructions on how to proceed.

[DanielHuebschmann]

Hello!

Like the error message says: The SSL-certificate chain cannot be trusted.

Try the following:
Under the rider “Connection Properties” you should find the option “Trust server certificate”.

Check the box and retry.

This is not the best option for all scenarios, but for a development and experimental environment like yours it’s a good and fast fix!

[DanielHuebschmann]

If you would like take it a step further and treat the problem like on a sensitive public server, check this article on Microsoft Learn:

Certificate Management (SQL Server Configuration Manager) - SQL Server

[ahraitch]

Thank you, Daniel!

I would have sworn that I tried that without effect, but it worked perfectly today. And the link to information about certificates is perfect. I need to learn more about certificates and how they work.

Thank you, again!