Due to the full rights of SA login in SQL Server, it is imperative to change SA password on a regular basis whether it is monthly, quarterly or semi-annually.  Changing SA password is a relatively easy process, having no impact on the organization.  Unfortunately, changing SA password on a regular basis is not a common practice at most organizations. Then how to change SA password? There are 2 methods to follow:

Method 1: Change SQL Server login password by its properties

If you can logon to SQL Server, just do as follows:

• 1. Login into SQL server.
• 2. In Object Explorer, open Security folder, open Logins folder. Right Click on SA account and go to Properties.
• 3. Type a new SQL SA password, and confirm it. Click OK to finish.

After restarting SQL Server and all its services, you can log into SQL Server by SA login with new SQL SA password.

Note:

1. If the changed SA password is unacceptable by SQL Server, follow the below steps:

2. Control panel->administrative tools->services->MSSQLSERVER->properties->In logon tab, input the account name and its password->ok-> SQL Server will start.

Method 2 Change SA password by SQL Server Password Unlocker

SQL Server Password Unlocker instantly replaces or reset lost or forgotten user and administrator passwords protecting Microsoft SQL Server databases, which supports all versions of Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft SQL Server Express Edition up to the latest 2008. When you forgot Server password and cannot login, all you need is SQL Password Unlocker and master.mdf file (in the installation folder of the server).

Step 1: Download and run MS SQL Server Password Unlocker on your PC.

Step 2: Import master.mdf file.

Step 3: Select the SA account and then click Change Password button.

Step 4: Enter your new password and click OK. Then you finish SA password reset.

In order to prevent the SA password from becoming stale in the future, be sure to put processes in place to change SA password on a regular basis.