# Configure the Database Connection

Kanoa MES uses a Microsoft SQL Server database connection named **`kanoaCore`**. This connection is required.
Kanoa MES requires Microsoft SQL Server 2019 (15.0) or later.

:::caution
KanoaMES supports sites in multiple timezones, but this requires that both the database and gateway servers **MUST** be set to UTC timezone
to eliminate issues arising from daylight savings.
:::

### Create the database connection in the Ignition Gateway
<img
  src="https://kanoa-software.netlify.app/img/gettingStarted/dbConnection.png"
  alt="Database Connection"
  width="800"
  style={{
    border: '1px solid #000000',
    borderRadius: '8px'
  }}
/>

In the Ignition Gateway, create a new database connection and name it:

- **`kanoaCore`** (required name)

Reference: [Connecting to Databases (Ignition 8.1)](https://docs.inductiveautomation.com/docs/8.1/platform/database-connections/connecting-to-databases)

* The database connection name **must** be `kanoaCore`.
* The userName and credentials used in the database connection **must** be a user with dbOwner privileges in order to create the kanoaMES schema, tables.
* Set **Max Active** to **-1** in the advanced options.
* Recommend setting **Include Schema in Table Name** to true.

:::caution
KanoaMES makes frequent fast responsive database queries, but depending on load may have numerous open pool thread connections to the database. 
Ensure you have set **Max Active** to **-1** in the advanced options, to avoid laggy systems.
:::

### Schema creation and updates

The Kanoa MES module installer handles both:

- creation of the required database schema (on first install), and
- updating the schema (on upgrade)

You do not need to manually create tables as part of the install process.