Yes it was exactly the same issue, after I slept on it, I realised what the problem could be, are you having any difficulty connecting to the Server Core installation? I can connect SQL-A to SQL-B if I turn off the firewall but as far as I can see everything is set up correctly but I can't connect to Server Core. I think I have spent too long on the initial setup though and I'm just going to work through the kit and hopefully be ready for the exam next month. Not sure if you can post email addresses in here but if you want to share any ideas it's bradwilliams51@msn.com or add me on linkedin, https://uk.linkedin.com/in/brad-williams-52583a40. I'm going to be working through all the SQL certifications so as soon as this ones out the way I will be on to 70-463.