ERROR FIX: Alter failed for Login sa - Cannot set a credential for principal 'sa'. (Microsoft SQL Server, Error: 15535)

Generally It is good practice to disable SA login in SQL Server and use SysAdmin account which is created by you to secure you SQL Server from few threats. Well, this is not a scope of this article to explain why you should disable it but I would like to share one quick tip when you face above error while enabling you SA account back.

If you see error like:

ERROR FIX: Alter failed for Login sa - Cannot set a credential for principal 'sa'. (Microsoft SQL Server, Error: 15535)

While enabling your SA account, you have to enable one check box “Map to credential” from “General” table. Once you are done with that, go to “Status” table and make your user “Enable” with radio button under “Status” tab.

Reference: Ritesh Shah
http://www.sqlhub.com
Note: Microsoft Books online is a default reference of all articles but examples and explanations prepared by Ritesh Shah, founder of http://www.SQLHub.com