http://blogs.msdn.com/vsxteam/archive/2008/01/15/Dr-eX-How-can-I-programmatically-add-a-database-connection-to-the-server-explorer-toolwindow-with-my-add-in.aspxFor VS 2008, you can use the IVsDataExplorerConnectionManager.AddConnection method. The easiest way to retrieve this interface is with the help of the Visual Studio SDK . You’ll need to install the VS SDK and add the following references to your add-inen-USCommunityServer 2.1 SP1 (Build: 61025.2)