How to Enable Dedicated Administrator Connection (DAC) in SQL Server Database

Enable Dedicated Administrator Connection in SQL Server Database by SSMS or by T-SQL command

What is DAC ?

DAC stands for Dedicated Administrator Connection. This feature got introduced in SQL Server 2005. This diagnostic connection basically helps users to remain connected and perform fundamental queries on troubleshooting when some severe performance issues occur. Only users with sysadmin role permission can use Dedicated Administrator Connection.

How to Enable DAC in SQL Server?

In order to enable the DAC in SQL Server, users can choose any of the below methods:

  • Using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

To enable DAC with the help of SSMS, follow these steps:

  • Right-click the current SQL Server Instance and choose Facets option from the context menu.
    • Click on Facets
  • View Facets window will appear on your screen. Choose Surface Area Configuration for Facet category. Choose the value "True" for RemoteDacEnabled option.
    • Choose Surface Area Configuration
  • Click on OK to enable DAC.
  • Using TSQL

    • Run the scripts to enable DAC through TSQL:

    Use master
GO
/* 0 = Allow Local Connection, 1 = Allow Remote Connections*/ 
sp_configure 'remote admin connections', 1 
GO
RECONFIGURE
GO