SQL Express uses a named instance. Instead of (local), try machinename/SQLExpress or ./SQLExpress

>Hi,
>
>I downloaded and installed SQL Server 2008 R2 Express on the computer which didn't have any other version of SQL Server. The installation went through without errors. Now when I start SSMS the Window Connect to Server shows the server name as (local). And Authentication is Windows. When I click on Connect I get error.
>

>A network-related or instance specific error occurred while establishing a connection.  The serve was not found or was not accessible... 
>

>When I click on the pull-down list of the Server name and then on click on "Browse for more" no server names appear.
>What step do I need to make the server accessible?
>TIA.