Could not open a connection to SQL Server

During a backup or replication job, or while attempting to launch the Veeam Backup client, you may witness this error message. This usually only occurs when utilizing a remote SQL database however, it will occur with local SQL instances as well.

A connectivity issue exists between the SQL Server and the Veeam Backup Server, in some cases you will  be able to ping the Server however, this usually indicates a problem with the SQL configuration.

The Surface Area Configuration is included with the Workstation Components with SQL installations. Use the SQL Server Surface Area Configuration to enable, disable, start or stop the features, services and remote connectivity of your SQL Server 2005 installations. You can use SQL Server Surface Area Configuration on local and remote servers.

You will first need to ensure named pipes is enabled under the Remote Connections of the Instance where the Veeam Backup database resides. It would be ideal to check the "Local and remote connections" radio button as well as "Using both TCP/IP and named pipes" to ensure connections in all scenarios.

You may also notice that the "Veeam Backup service" fails to start on the Veeam Server.