I would like to change the name of my instance of SQL Server. Is there an easy way to do this or is it worth a lot of effort? Note: this is a named instance, not a default instance.
I have seen several temporary ways to do this, but I have no confidence in any of them. I think that I will just install a new instance and pass on my information.
The only way is to reinstall. See this topic for more information: SQL Server, convert a named instance to a default instance?
Or you can try this method: http://groups.google.com/group/microsoft.public.sqlserver.server/browse_thread/thread/544c4eaf43ddfaf3/f1bdcd1ec9cab158#f1bdcd1ec9cab158
Renaming does not work in the registry. Install a new isntance.
Although there is no easy way to rename an instance of SQL Server, you can create SQL aliases .