sql server not showing in the program files of start menu

[chelvis]

I installed sql server in december 2005 and when I look at the control pannel, its there. But its not showing on the desk top or even in the start > program files menu. So how can I start it?

[djm0219]

Go to the Settings->Control Panel->Administrative Tools->Services and you should find it there. Failing that you should be able to find myslqd.exe in the bin directory where you installed MySQL (d:\MySQL\bin for example).

[chelvis]

I dont have mysql but I have microsoft sql server. I hope they are all similar (I am very new to sql now).

As you mentioned I went to c: > programfiles > microsoft sql server > bin > sqlservr.exe and clicked on it. It opened a dos command prompt and then a few seconds later gave this message

"SQL Server could not fine the default instance (MSSQLSERVER) - please specify the name of an existing instance on the invocation of sqlservr.exe

If you believe that your installation is corrupt or has been tampered with, ininstall then re-run to correct this problem"

I am so cofused and dont know what to do now!

[djm0219]

Sorry. Didn't know/realize you were talking about MSSQL. I don't have a clue where you might find it I'm afraid though I would suggest looking at services in the admin tools.

[vinyl-junkie]

You should be able to find it through this path:

Start > Programs > Microsoft SQL Server 2005 > SQL Server Manager Studio