>>I have SQL Express installed on my development laptop.
>>I want to simulate connecting to a remote SQL Server by using the IP address instead of localhost in the connection string. First question: Is this a good simulation of a remote connection?
>>When I try to use my IP instead of localhost in the connection string I can not connect. I did configure the SQL Server inctance to allow remote connections (using this article http://support.microsoft.com/kb/914277), but that didn't help.
>>I am sure it is something in my connection string. What could I be missing?
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>>If anyone has any information to share it would be great.
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>After starting the SQL Server Browser service I was able to connect using my machine's IP address in the connection string.

I guess that's because SQL is using dynamic port addressing. I think that can be disabled but just running the browser service is simpler....