SharePoint 2013 Configuration Wizard: Troubleshooting "Failed to Create Configuration Database" Error
Scenario: You're setting up SharePoint 2013, and the Configuration Wizard throws the dreaded error: "Failed to create the configuration database." This can be frustrating, especially if you're new to SharePoint. But don't worry, we'll walk you through the most common causes and solutions to get your farm up and running.
Original Code (Example):
[ConfigurationWizard Error]
Failed to create the configuration database.
Error Details:
The specified database already exists.
Understanding the Problem:
This error often indicates that a database with the same name already exists, preventing SharePoint from creating a new one for its configuration settings. The Configuration Wizard needs a clean slate, so to speak, to store essential information like farm settings and user accounts.
Troubleshooting Steps:
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Verify Existing Databases: Use SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) to check if a database with the same name as your intended configuration database already exists.
- Solution: If you find the database, you can either:
- Rename or delete the existing database: This is the simplest option if the database is not crucial.
- Use a different name for the configuration database: Choose a unique name during the configuration process.
- Solution: If you find the database, you can either:
-
Check Permissions: Ensure the SQL Server account used for the SharePoint installation has the necessary permissions to create databases on the instance.
- Solution: Grant the appropriate permissions to the SQL Server account.
- Example: Use SSMS to check the user's permissions and grant them the "db_owner" role on the targeted database.
-
Investigate SQL Server Errors: Review the SQL Server error logs for more specific details about the database creation failure.
- Solution: Consult the logs to understand the root cause of the error and take appropriate action. For example, it could be a storage space issue or a security restriction.
-
Confirm SQL Server Availability: Verify that the SQL Server instance is accessible from the SharePoint server.
- Solution: Ensure that the SQL Server instance is running and properly configured. Ping the SQL Server from the SharePoint server to confirm connectivity.
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Restart Services: Restart both SQL Server and the SharePoint services after making any changes to the configuration.
Additional Tips:
- Run the Configuration Wizard as an administrator: Ensure you have sufficient privileges to create databases.
- Check the SharePoint logs: Detailed information about the error might be available in the SharePoint ULS logs.
- Use SQL Server Express edition: For small deployments, you can utilize the free SQL Server Express edition, which simplifies the setup.
Resources:
- Microsoft Docs: SharePoint 2013 Configuration Wizard
- Microsoft Docs: Troubleshooting Database Issues in SharePoint
Conclusion:
The "Failed to create the configuration database" error can be frustrating, but with a systematic approach and the right troubleshooting steps, you'll be able to overcome it and successfully configure your SharePoint 2013 farm. Remember to carefully check database names, permissions, and SQL Server configurations to identify and resolve the underlying issue.
