Should SQL Server Browser Be Disabled

Short Answer:
Yes-in most environments, disabling SQL Server Browser is recommended for security, unless you need to utilize it for specific applications or users that connect without specifying port numbers.
Should SQL Server Browser Be Disabled?
The SQL Server Browser service supplies information about the SQL Server instances installed on a computer. It allows clients to connect using instance names instead of port numbers.
Security Perspective
The Browser service listens on UDP port 1434 and responds to broadcast queries.
This exposes:

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Available SQL Server instance names
Their network ports
Version information
Because it shows information that attackers can use for enumeration, security best practices recommend disabling it in a production environment.

When You SHOULD Disable SQL Server Browser
Disable it if:
Your SQL Server uses a fixed port - recommended for production.
All applications/clients connect using a port number.
You want to reduce the attack surface and hide instance details.
You have only one instance running on the server.
It's a public-facing or internet-connected SQL Server.
This strengthens security by requiring explicit port connections.

When You SHOULD NOT Disable SQL Server Browser
Keep it enabled if:
You have multiple instances of SQL Server, especially named instances.
Applications connect using instance names, not port numbers.
You use dynamic ports (default for named instances).
You cannot easily modify all the connection strings.
In such cases, disabling Browser may cause clients not to connect unless configured manually.

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Suggested Secure Configuration
Best practice for production:
Assign a static port to SQL Server, for example 1433, or another of your choice.
Disable the SQL Server Browser.
Update connection strings to:
Server=SERVER_NAME,1433;
Block UDP 1434 at firewall if not needed.
This keeps your SQL Server secure while ensuring smooth connectivity.

⭐ Final Recommendation
If you're running a single-instance SQL Server or your applications can use static ports, then YES - you should disable SQL Server Browser for better security.

If you have multiple instances or rely on instance-name-based connections, don't turn it off until you transition to using fixed ports first.
If you want, I can also guide you on:
SQL Server Browser - How to Disable How to Set a Static Port for SQL Server How to update connection strings Just let me know!

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