SQL Server Configuration Manager is a tool for managing the services that make up SQL Server. It is used to configure the settings of SQL Server services installed on a machine, including the SQL Server Database Engine, SQL Server Reporting Services, SQL Server Analysis Services and others associated with it.
With SQL Server Configuration Manager, administrators can view and change the configuration of SQL Server services that include setting log on or log off accounts, configuring server protocols, configuring network protocols and managing other settings. For instance, it is possible to view and change the authentication mode, configure port numbers and set up SSL certificates using the configuration manager.
Additionally, SQL Server Configuration Manager can be used to manage and configure the client protocols, such as Shared Memory, Named Pipes, TCP/IP, and VIA. By configuring these protocols, it is possible to establish network communications between a client and SQL Server.
SQL Server Configuration Manager can also be used to manage the SQL Server browser service, which is required when you run, among others, dynamic port mapping of named instances or clustering algorithms that use named instances.
In summary, SQL Server Configuration Manager is a feature-rich tool for managing and configuring different SQL Server services on one or more servers that run Windows. It is an essential tool for SQL Server administrators, especially those who manage complex and large database environments.