If developers know how to determine the name of the instance of the Database Engine they can follow the next steps:
1. In Registered Servers, if the name of their instance of SQL Server has a green dot with a white arrow next to the name, the Database Engine is running and no further action is necessary.
2. If the name of their instance of SQL Server has a red dot with a white square next to the name, the Database Engine is stopped. Developers right-click the name of the Database Engine, and then click Start. After a confirmation dialog box, the Database Engine should start and the circle should turn green.