Installing Sql Express on a Peer to Peer Network Log in and Password problems

I am trying to set up Sql Server Express on a peer to peer network. I need to set a log in and password for the service so that I can access the DBs from any machine. (ultimately I will be using VB but for now I am just trying to make the connecton through the Management Component studio). I have sql express installed on both machines. I can not find anywhere it will allow me to change from Windows authentication to Sql Authentication I have tried both in the properties of Sql Express management studio and the local Computer management. Help please!!!

hi,

SQLExpress installs by default diabling standard SQL Server authenticated connections...

you can modify that behaviour at install time, specifying the SECURITYMODE=SQL parameter if you execute the setup wit command line parameters or setup.ini file, or in the installation wizard unchecking the "hide advanced features" check box.. a successive wizard task will enable you to define "Mixed mode" as connection option...

if you like to enable Mixed mode after installation, you can manually "hack" the Windows registry modifying the
HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL.3\MSSQLServer
LoginMode = 2
key, where MSSQL.3 identifies your SQLExpress database engine or, more user friendly, you can use the SQL Server Management Studio Express graphical tool to modify the setting..
log in as a member of system administrator, select the Database Engine node in the Object Browser.. rx click->Properties.. in the "Security" tab select "SQL Server and Windows Authentication mode"..

when you are finished, select the Security->Logins node.. select the "sa" login, rx click->Properties.. set a strong password for this special super account.. in the "Status" tab, set "Login: Enabled" property...

restart the SQLExpress instance..

you can now add your own standard SQL Server logins as desired..

regards

|||Thanks for your help up and running and testing.