---
title: "Connect to an External SQL Database"
slug: "connect-to-an-external-sql-database"
updated: 2026-02-23T08:32:23Z
published: 2026-02-23T08:32:23Z
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://documentation.lakesidesoftware.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connect to an External SQL Database

By default the query block accesses the SysTrack database. However, you can connect to a different SQL Server database by supplying connection information. The SQL query will then be run against the specified database.

1. Select the relevant Query block. In the **Properties** panel, open the **Connection String** section.
2. Deselect the **Use SysTrack database** option.

![](https://cdn.document360.io/87d11426-6b1f-4b19-b593-b71e55a81af3/Images/Documentation/connection_non-SysTrackDB.png)
3. With the **Database** tab selected (this is the default), enter a **Name** (required), and a **Description** (optional) for the connection.
4. Enter the **Server**on which the database resides.
5. Enter the **Database** name.
6. In the **User** field, enter the user with access to this database.
7. Enter a **Password** for the user.
8. Optionally, enter any **Extended Properties**.
9. If you are using Windows credentials instead of a SQL account for this connection, select the **Integrated** check box, otherwise leave this box unchecked.
10. Click the **Apply** button to save your changes.
11. To save this connection as a shared connection, click the [Share connection button.](/documentation/docs/use-shared-connections)

The Query Data block will now include an icon showing that it is linked to an external database:

![](https://cdn.document360.io/87d11426-6b1f-4b19-b593-b71e55a81af3/Images/Documentation/query_data_block_external.png)

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