Top Solutions for Microsoft SQL Server Error 18456

Summary: The error message “Login failed for user (Microsoft SQL Server, Error 18456)” is one of the most frequent issues. Many users encounter issues when attempting to log in using a SQL Server username and password. However, the server is only configured to support Windows accounts. Thus, we write this blog to resolve the Microsoft SQL Server Error 18456 with manual methods and a professional MS SQL Recovery Tool. Each method provides a 100% accurate and hassle-free recovery.
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What is Server Error 18456?

Error 18456 occurs when a user attempts to connect to SQL Server but fails due to authentication issues. The error message usually includes a state number that provides more specific information about the cause. For instance, state 5 indicates an invalid user ID, while state 8 points to a password mismatch.

What are the Reasons for User Error, 18456?

The Login Failed error occurs due to several reasons, such as:

• If you entered the wrong password, double-check to make sure it’s correct.
• Also, make sure capslock is off to avoid password capitalization.
• Sometimes, you try to log in with a SQL username and password, but SQL Server allows only Windows Authentication.
• Multiple failed login attempts can disable or lock the account.

However, the most common reason for this error is SQL file corruption.

 Best Practices to Prevent Encounter Error 18456

• Ensure that all login accounts have strong, unique passwords.
• Implement a policy to change passwords periodically.
• Moreover, keep an eye on failed login attempts to detect and address potential issues early.
• Use a dedicated administrative account instead of the default ‘sa’ account.
• You should also create rules that automatically lock user accounts after several failed login attempts.

Best Methods to Fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 18456

If you are troubleshooting Server Error 18456, you can resolve it by using different methods. Let’s explore each method in detail and get a quick recovery.

Method 01: Turn On SQL Server Authentication Mode

Sometimes, SQL Server allows only Windows accounts to log in. If you try logging in with a SQL username and password (like “sa”) while it’s still in Windows-only mode, you’ll face Error 18456.

Steps to Enable SQL Server Authentication:

1. Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) on your system.
2. In the login window, choose Windows Authentication and click Connect.
3. After you connect, right-click your server name and choose Properties.
4. Then, in the Server Properties window, go to the Security tab.
5. Further, select SQL Server and Windows Authentication mode.
6. Finally, click OK to save the changes.

After that, restart the SSMS.

Method 02: Reset Password to Fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 18456

If SQL Server Authentication is already turned on, but you’re still getting error 18456. The problem might be the password. This error can happen if you type the wrong password or if the password is changed without your knowledge. You can either ask your database admin for the correct login details or update the password yourself if you have access.

How to Change the Password in SSMS:

1. First, in (SSMS), go to the Object Explorer on the left.
2. Then, click on Logins to see the list of users. Find your login name.
3. After that, right-click your user name and choose Properties.
4. In the new window, remove the old password, type a new password, and confirm it in the second box.
5. Further, click OK to save the changes.
6. In the end, restart the SQL Server to apply the update (right-click your server name in Object Explorer and choose Restart).

Method 03: Give System Admin Rights to the User

Generally, this error occurs because your account doesn’t have enough permission to access the SQL Server. Some users are only allowed to connect through Windows Authentication, and even then, limited access can cause login issues.

Steps to Grant System Admin Permission:

1. In SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), open Object Explorer.
2. Now, go to Security and click on Login.
3. Afterward, find the user who’s having the problem.
4. Then, right-click on their name and choose Properties.
5. In the left menu, click on Server Roles.
6. On the right, check the box next to sysadmin.
7. Lastly, click OK to apply the changes.

Method 04: Fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 18456 Using a Reliable Tool

If your MDF or NDF file is damaged or corrupted and causes this error. You can use reliable SQL Recovery Software to repair your corrupted SQL file. This tool helps to restore all the database components, including Tables, Triggers, Indexes, and more. Furthermore, this tool repairs your SQL database if it is in suspect mode. With its simple interface, this tool offers several advanced features, such as Preview, Resolve Corruption, and fix SQL Server Error 8923. Although you can use this utility on any Windows or SQL version.

Quick Steps to Repair Corrupted MDF/NDF File

1. Primarily, launch the SQL Recovery Software on your computer.
2. Then, click on Open and add the SQL database file.
3. After that, choose the Recovery & Collation options. Click OK.
4. You’ll be able to see a preview of all the files that were recovered.
5. Lastly, click Save SQL Data and browse its location. 

Final Words

Microsoft SQL Server Error 18456 is common, but it’s completely fixable. If you’re facing login issues due to a password error, a permission problem, or file corruption. The methods above will help you to easily resolve this error. If your file is damaged and corrupted, using a reliable recovery tool can help you fix the issue quickly.

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