problem when try to config replication

Hi guys, i m just started to learn replication (and new to sql server as well). and got a problem when trying out instructions from MSDN, when i try to start new publication wizard. the following error message comes up. could anyone tell me what's going on?

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Cannot connect to NATURE.

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SQL Server replication requires the actual server name to make a connection to the server. Connections through a server alias, IP address, or any other alternate name are not supported. Specify the actual server name, 'ComputerFans'. (Replication.Utilities)

Program Location:

in Microsoft.SqlServer.Management.UI.ReplicationSqlConnection.CheckServerAlias(ServerConnection conn)
in Microsoft.SqlServer.Management.UI.ReplicationSqlConnection.ValidateConnection(UIConnectionInfo connInfo, IServerType server)
in Microsoft.SqlServer.Management.UI.ConnectionDlg.Connector.ConnectionThreadUser()

is it some thing to do with my installation of sql server? btw, i m using sql server 2005

thanks a lot
In Management Studio, have you registered the server using "." or "local", if yes please specify the actual instance name ComputerFans

HTH
Vishal|||

thanks for ur reply.

it seems like its the problem with DB instance name, coz i tried one of my named instance of db engine, it works....

|||

You are partly correct. The problem is the SQL server name does not equal the Windows server name.Do a ‘select * from sysservers’ against the Master Db.The SVRName should be ServerName\InstanceName.If it is not, you’ll need to do an ‘SP_dropserver” followed by a ‘SP_addserver’ to correct it.Check the BOL for the proper parameters before running the SPs.

Odie.