What is Linked Server?

Linked Server is a feature in SQL Server that allows access to other databases, similar to accessing a SQL Server DB. As the name suggests it "links" to other servers, either other SQL Servers or other DBs on non-windows Servers (i.e. Oracle, DB2, etc.).

The easiest way to create a Linked Server is through Enterprise Manager.

1. In the left pane, expand the objects down to the desired server, where the Linked Server will be created.
2. Expand Databases of the desired server and click on the "Security" Folder
3. Right Click on "Linked Servers" and select "New Linked Server". Specify all the parameters for the server to be linked to.

After a Linked Server has been created, it should be accessed using a four-part name syntax (see http://clevelanddotnet.blogspot.com/2005/07/what-is-four-part-name-in-sql-server.html for more information.)