Where should I look for detailed error messages or clues in server logs or event viewers to troubleshoot error 10061?

When troubleshooting 10061, server-side logs are crucial to understand why the connection was refused. 1. **SQL Server Error Logs:** While 10061 itself is a client-side Winsock error, the SQL Server error logs (usually found in `C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQLxx.InstanceName\MSSQL\Log`) are vital for checking if the SQL Server instance started successfully, if there were any network-related errors during startup, or if it attempted to listen on specific ports. Look for messages indicating it's 'listening on' specific ports. 2. **Windows Event Viewer:** Check the 'System' log for messages related to the SQL Server service (startup/shutdown errors), network adapter issues, or firewall blocks. Check the 'Application' log for SQL Server-specific warnings or errors that might indicate an underlying problem preventing it from listening for connections.