MSSQL database is not visible or cannot be opened in myLittleAdmin on Plesk server: Cannot open user default database

Alexander Davydov

Updated January 13, 2026 19:06

Plesk for Windows kb: technical

Applicable to:

Unable to access MSSQL database via myLittleAdmin at Domains > example.com > Databases > phpMyAdmin page. Database is not shown in myLittleAdmin or the following error appears:

myLittleAdmin Silent Logon Error Cannot open user default database. Login failed. Login failed for user.
Attempt to export database at Domains > example.com > Databases > Export Dump page fails:

Unable to export a dump of database_name:
Unable to backup database 'database_name'
Cannot open user default database. Login failed.
Login failed for user 'database_user'.
(Error code 21)

In MSSQL Management Studio > database_name > right-click > Properties > Permissions > database_user > Effective, the following error message is shown:

The server principal "database_user" is not able to access the database "database_name" under the current security context.

Insufficient permissions for database user inherited from a user role assigned to the database.

Connect to the database's server via RDP.
Open MSSQL Management Studio via Windows Start menu.
Under the required database_name press right-click and navigate to Properties > Permissions page.
Find the database role with Deny permissions.
Disable all Deny permissions found and press OK to save changes.