Create Database Connection with SQL Server in ArcMap

 In this tutorial we will explain how to connect to SQL Server.

Open ArcMap and use ArcCatalog window.

Then expand on Database Connections and double-click on Add Database Connection

Then you will get the following dialog:

Fill the dialog as following:

1. Database Platform: The type of database that we will be using. We will select SQL Server.
2. Instance: The URL of the database server that we will be using. For example: localhost\SQLEXPRESS2017
3. Authentication Type: SQL Server supports Database Authentication and Windows Authentication. Choose what ever fits you.
4. Database: If the connection succeeded, you will get list of databases that this user can access.

Then press Ok, and you will have a new database connection that you can rename it as you like.