In order to access databases you must register the SQL Server instance they are running on.

When first starting SQL Visualizer the Workspace window located on the left contains a single node, 'Workspace'. This is where you add Servers, Server Groups, and can navigate around Database objects.

To register a server right click on the Workspace node, or Server Group node (see Reorganizing the Workspace for more details). Select Add and then Server.

Enter the name of the SQL Server instance or select from the drop down list. When selecting from the list SQL Visualizer will search the local computer and network to discover available servers.

You can optionally enter a description; this will appear as a tool tip when hovering over the server node in the workspace.

Select whether you wish to connect to the server using Windows authentication or using SQL Server authentication. If using SQL Server authentication enter the appropriate SQL Server login name and password.

Clicking the OK button will confirm that the server is available and add the server to the Workspace. If the server is unavailable you will be informed and have the option to check or change the connection details. You may still add the server even if it is currently unavailable, for example when you are working offline.