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Error: Windows Cannot Find SQLProv.exe

Problem

You receive the error dialog "Windows cannot find 'C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\90\Shares\\SQLProv.exe'. Make sure you typed the name correctly, and then try again."

This error occurs when the user does not have Administrative rights.

Solutions

Option 1

Make sure the SQL configuration is correct:

SQL Configuration Manager:
- Set SQL Service and SQL Browser to local system/automatic start, and make sure both are running.
- Enable tcp/ip and named pipes.
SQL Management Studio:
- Select the Security folder, then Logins folder.
- Open the properties for the sa login.
- Verify that the sa login is properly configured:
  - On the Server Roles tab, ensure you have the sysadmin and public roles.
  - On the Status tab, verify that GRANT and ENABLED are selected.
  - Restart the SQL service if you make any changes to the sa login properties.

Option 2

Make sure your anti-virus software did not delete SQLProv.exe from the MSSQL program folder.

Option 3

Remove any versions of Microsoft SQL installed on your local machine.
Confirm that "C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\90\Shared\SQLProv.exe" is not installed locally.
Access the server, and log into the SQL management program.
Double-click the Security folder, then double-click the Logins folder.
Right-click on sa, and select Properties.
If necessary, clear the Enforce password policy check box.

Note: With the Enforce password policy cleared, you will not have to reset the sa password if your IT department sets the server to expire all passwords after a duration of time.
Confirm that the Password is set.
Click the Status tab, and under Login select Enabled.
Go back to the local workstation and attempt to create a new file, or access the current data file.