Learn How to Recover an MDF File and Repair an SQL Database

Summary: I have seen many queries about how to recover an MDF file and repair a damaged SQL Server database file. If you are stuck with a corrupted MDF file and your SQL does not load properly, you are not alone. This is the common problem that many users face, but there is a solution to repair it. In this simple blog, we will explain everything from built-in SQL commands to the advanced SQL Database Recovery Tool options. Whether your database is showing errors or stuck in suspect mode, this post will help you recover and repair it step-by-step. Download Now Purchase Now

What is an MDF File in SQL Server?

An MDF (Master Database File) is the primary data file of Microsoft SQL Server. It stores all the crucial information, such as tables, indexes, stored procedures, views, and triggers. SQL (MDF files) are like the heart of your SQL database. When the MDF file is corrupted, your whole database stops working. That’s why recover MDF file immediately is essential. 

Why MDF Files Get Corrupted?

The MDF Files get corrupted due to several reasons, like:

• Suddenly system shuts down or power failure.
• Due to a malware or virus attack.
• Hardware failure or system crashes.
• Fault database migration or upgrade.

Signs Your SQL Database File Gets Corrupted

Here are several common signs that your MDF file is corrupted:

• SQL Server does not start properly.
• It shows errors like: MDF file is not accessible, or SQL database is in suspect mode.
• Some important data is missing.
• The database refuses to attach or detach.

Common Errors That Appear When the MDF File Is Corrupted

Your system displays different error messages when the MDF file is corrupted. Some of the main error messages are:

• Error message 823
• Message 824 Error
• 825 Error message
• Error 9004

How Do I Repair an MDF File?

In the upcoming section, we will discuss the three major methods to recover MDF file. It includes:

• Manual Solution:
  • By executing SSMS commands
  • Using the T-SQL command
• Instant Solution:
  • With the help of the SQL Database Recovery Tool

Solution 01: Run the SSMS Command to Restore MDF File in SQL Server

This method uses the SQL Server Management Studio to restore an MDF file. In addition, it is not useful to recover a corrupt MDF. Here is how you can perform it:

1. Firstly, start the SQL Server Management Studio.
2. Then, click on the Object Explorer Section.
3. After that, right-click on Database & choose Restore Database.
4. Now, click on the Device button and browse the MDF file.
5. Press the Add button and locate the bak file. Click OK.
6. Afterward, click the Options on the select page account.
7. You can set & modify several conditions to restore an MDF file according to your requirements.
8. Lastly, click on the OK button, and you will receive a notification that your MDF file is successfully restored. 

Solution 02: Recover MDF File Using T-SQL Command

This is another solution to restore an MDF file in SQL Server by using the T-SQL command. But this method requires technical knowledge to execute the SQL commands. Follow the steps below to execute the commands:

1. Run the SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and click on Connect.
2. Then, choose Database Engine and select Import MDF File.
3. In the object explorer section, click on the New Query option.
4. Write this query: 

CREATE DATABASE MDF_FILE_NAMEON (FILENAME = ‘C:\FilePath\File_name.mdf’)FOR ATTACH_REBUILD_LOGGO

5. And then, click on Run to execute this query.

After running the above query, you can refresh the SQL Server database. Then, check the newly restored database file under the Object Explorer.

Points to Remember

• The above methods are not suitable for recovering a corrupt MDF file.
• They increase the chance of losing your valuable data if not performed properly.
• Not helpful to restore bulk MDF or large MDF files.
• Both methods require technical expertise to perform the restoration process.

Solution 03: Instantly Recover Corrupted MDF File

If you want a 100% accurate recovery, you can use the SQL Database Recovery Tool. The tool handles the corrupt or damaged MDF or NDF files without any hassle. The best part of this tool is that there is no need to run any command. It recovers all the database components such as tables, triggers, stored procedures, indexes, etc.

• It offers a dual scan mode: Standard/Advanced for minor or major corruption.
• Allows you to save the recovered database file to a new or existing SQL Server database and SQL-compatible script.
• The interface of this utility is user-friendly, which makes it easy for non-technical users to operate.
• Also, it maintains data integrity and structure that makes sure nothing is changed or lost during recovery.
• Helpful to recover database (MDF) files of any versions, such as 2000, 2005, 2008, 2012, 2014, and 2016.
• Furthermore, it provides a fast processing speed and is highly compatible with all Windows OS versions.

Steps to Repair an MDF File

1. Firstly, download and install the SQL Database Recovery Tool as an admin.
2. Now, click on the Browse and select the corrupted MDF file to repair.
3. Then, choose Recovery Mode: either Standard or Advanced.
4. After that, click OK, it will start the scanning process.
5. Afterward, Preview and select the recovered MDF database file.
6. Press the Save option and enter your SQL Server credentials to connect.
7. In the end, click OK and define the destination Path to Save.

Additional Features of This Tool

• It is also used to recover SQL databases in suspect mode.
• If your recovery is in pending mode, this utility is useful.
• Helpful to restore a SQL Database file without a backup.
• Moreover, no need to run the DBCC command to repair the database.

Important Note: If you have another query related to this tool, contact our technical support. They are available 24/7 and ready to help you resolve your issue immediately.

Conclusion

In the above blog, we explained both the manual and recommended tools to recover MDF file. If you want to restore the MDF file, you can use the manual method. Because the manual methods do not support recovering the corrupted MDF file. You can use a professional tool to recover corrupted or damaged SQL (MDF & NDF) database files. Additionally, it handles a large volume of MDF files without data loss.