Hi friends! In this post, which is related to SQL Server failover clustering, we will talk about how you can resolve the issue of not being able to add a node to a Server failover cluster, due to the fact that one of the service accounts (i.e. SQL Server or SQL Server Agent, or both) is greyed out during the installation wizard process, meaning that you cannot proceed with the add node operation.
Greyed out service account in SQL Server Add Failover Cluster Node wizard
Under certain circumstances, after launching the “Add Node to a SQL Server Failover Cluster” wizard from within SQL Server’s installation center, during the process where you need to set the credentials for the service accounts (i.e. SQL Server and/or SQL Server Agent service account), you observe that one of those service accounts is greyed out, meaning that you cannot set it up in the wizard. This has as an effect, not to be able to continue with the installation.
Below, you can find some useful tips, on how you can resolve the issue.
How to Resolve the issue
In order to resolve the issue, you can try the following, via the Failover Cluster manager tool.
In the list of resources, under the SQL Server failover cluster role, right-click on the SQL Server service you have trouble configuring its credentials in the add failover cluster node wizard. This can be either the “SQL Server” service, or “SQL Server Agent” or even both. Let’s see below both cases.
So, what you need to fix here in any of the two cases, is the “InstanceName” property in the cluster resources.
Below, we explain what you can try for each one of the two SQL Server services in the cluster.
Fixing the issue on the “SQL Server” cluster resource
Within the Failover Cluster Manager, under the SQL Server failover cluster role, right-click on the “SQL Server” resource, select “Properties“, and then again, navigate to the “Properties” tab of the dialog that opens.
Then, in the “InstanceName” property, you will need to make sure that the proper SQL Server instance name is there.
For example, if you are working on a default clustered instance of SQL Server, then, the default instance name would be “MSSQLServer“. In a different case (i.e. you are using a named clustered instance of SQL Server), again, you will need to make sure that the named instance is in the “InstanceName” field.
Fixing the issue on the “SQL Server Agent” cluster resource
Within the Failover Cluster Manager, under the SQL Server failover cluster role, right-click on the “SQL Server Agent” resource, select “Properties“, and then again, navigate to the “Properties” tab of the dialog that opens.
Then, in the “InstanceName” property, you will need to make sure that the proper SQL Server instance name is there.
Just like in the first case above, if you are working on a default clustered instance of SQL Server, then, the default instance name would be “MSSQLServer“. In a different case (i.e. you are using a named clustered instance of SQL Server), again, you will need to make sure that the named instance is in the “InstanceName” field.
Strengthen your SQL Server Administration Skills – Enroll to our Online Course!
Via the course, you will learn essential hands-on SQL Server Administration tips on SQL Server maintenance, security, performance, integration, error handling and more. Many live demonstrations and downloadable resources included!
(Lifetime Access/ Live Demos / Downloadable Resources and more!)
Sharpen your SQL Server database programming skills via a large set of tips on T-SQL and database development techniques. The course, among other, features over than 30 live demonstrations!
(Lifetime Access, Certificate of Completion, downloadable resources and more!)
Artemakis Artemiou is a seasoned Senior Database and AI/Automation Architect with over 20 years of expertise in the IT industry. As a Certified Database, Cloud, and AI professional, he has been recognized as a thought leader, earning the prestigious Microsoft Data Platform MVP title for nine consecutive years (2009-2018). Driven by a passion for simplifying complex topics, Artemakis shares his expertise through articles, online courses, and speaking engagements. He empowers professionals around the globe to excel in Databases, Cloud, AI, Automation, and Software Development. Committed to innovation and education, Artemakis strives to make technology accessible and impactful for everyone.
Views:4,580
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Read More
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
Cookie
Duration
Description
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional
11 months
The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance
11 months
This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy
11 months
The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Loading...