For a full explanation and step-by-step guide to setup a linked server through Sql Management Studio (SMS), check out this reference: http://www.databasejournal.... Here it is in a nutshell: If you are setting up a linked server for another sql server 2005/2008 box, just remember to (1) name the Linked server the same name as its network name, (2) select and provide under the security option ,"Be made ......