Connecting to SQL Server on Compute Engine via RDP
You created an instance of SQL Server 2017 on Compute Engine to test features in the new version. You want to connect to this instance using the fewest number of steps. What should you do?
Community Votes
65% of anonymous learners picked answer B. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.
Community Insight
The exam tests the distinction between downloading an RDP configuration file and establishing a direct connection; the trap is assuming the console's RDP button allows password input without a local client.
This question addresses the most efficient method to connect to a Windows instance running SQL Server on Google Cloud Platform using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). It clarifies that while the GCP Console provides an RDP button, it does not support direct credential entry for immediate session establishment.
Candidates frequently select Option D because they assume the 'RDP button' in the GCP Console initiates a web-based RDP session where credentials can be entered directly, ignoring the requirement for a local RDP client.
Community Discussion (203 comments)
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Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
Option B is the correct choice because it accurately reflects the technical reality of connecting to a Windows VM on Compute Engine with the fewest steps involving standard tools. While the prompt mentions 'fewest number of steps,' the critical constraint is the mechanism of connection. Setting the password in the console is mandatory if not done at creation, and using a local RDP client (or Chrome extension) is the standard, supported way to establish the session. The 'steps' refer to the administrative actions required: setting credentials and launching the client.Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A is incomplete because it omits the crucial step of setting the Windows username and password, which is required for authentication. Option C is incorrect because port 22 is used for SSH, not RDP (which uses port 3389), and it falsely claims the console button accepts credentials. Option D is the most common distractor; clicking the 'Connect' > 'RDP' button in the GCP Console typically opens a tab that instructs you to download an.rdp file or use a local client, rather than providing an interactive login form for credentials within the browser interface itself.Community Comment Notes
Community feedback highlights this exact ambiguity. As uservnxt noted, "RDP is enabled by default... Just make sure you install an RDP client... and set windows password," supporting B. User obeythefist tested this and confirmed, "When you click the RDP button, you are asked to install a client or use the Windows RDP client... There is no option to enter credentials." This consensus confirms that D describes a workflow that does not exist as stated. Official Reference
Exam Strategy
Always verify the specific capabilities of the GCP Console UI when questions involve 'direct' connections. If an option implies a feature (like web-based RDP credential entry) that requires additional software or downloads, it is likely incorrect compared to the standard client-based approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't the GCP Console RDP button allow direct login?
The button triggers a download of an RDP config file or redirects to instructions for using a local client; it does not host an interactive RDP session in the browser.
Is port 22 used for RDP connections to Windows?
No, port 22 is for SSH (Linux). RDP uses port 3389, which must be open in the firewall rules.
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