Know How to Access MDF File – The Complete Encyclopedia

Summary: This entire article revolves around one single query of users which is how to access MDF file & read its data. There are both manual as well as automated solutions available for users to accomplish this task & we are going to learn both of them. Along with the solution, the advantages as well as their drawbacks are also mentioned in this article.

However, before we begin this operation, it’s crucial for us to understand that SQL databases not only have MDF files, but other files based on their use. Users need to understand all the file formats SQL works with.

Although it’s not a difficult task, lack of technicalities is the foremost reason why users fail. Therefore, our focus is to provide users with a solution that does not require such proficiency in SQL server technicalities.

All Data Files of SQL Databases and their Uses

Users might only be aware of one or two file formats that SQL uses. However, there are a total of 5 formats al SQL users should be aware of. These formats are MDF, NDF, LDF, BAK, & SQL. Let’s dive deeper to find out more about this.

MDF or Master Database File: To learn how to access MDF file, we should know that MDF is the primary file format of SQL & all the major data is stored in it. It is generated by default & users can run their operations without this file.

NDF or Secondary Data File: The NDF file is a secondary data file & users may create this file in case they require it. This is not generated by default but only on users’ specific needs. The server can run without the presence of this file.

LDF or Log Data File: This LDF is another most crucial file of SQL database consisting of the details for each & every transaction. It is helpful for users in many cases like recovery, auditing, etc purposes.

BAK or Backup File: The BAK file is the backup file of SQL database that users create to use for emergencies. It is a very useful file in case users accidentally delete any useful information or faces corruption issues.

.sql or Script File: The script file is a file that contains both commands & data for the SQL server. Running this file in SQL, users will ghetto changes along with the data.

Now, that we are well aware of all the file formats, we can understand that in this article we are dealing with the primary file of SQL database.

How to Access MDF File Automatically – The Best Way Possible

The best way for users to open MDF File without using SQL Server Management Studio is the automated tool. Opting for Free Viewer Best-in-Cass MDF Viewer Tool is the right choice for them. This advanced utility is praised by almost all the experts & users who tried this utility. Moreover, it is even recommended by SQL MVPs that show the reliability of this tool.

Step-1. Launch the Viewer Tool in the system to begin. 

Step-2. Click on the Open button to Add MDF files here.

Step-3. Now, Select the Quick or Advanced Scan mode.

Step-4. Let the Software Complete the Scan of MDF files.

Step-5. Access the MDF Files & view all data stored in them.

Note: Select the “Run as Administrator” option to avoid all administrative challenges like restricted permissions, etc while learning how to access MDF file data.

Let’s move ahead with the features of this amazing advanced utility that makes it a favorite for all of the users & experts across the globe. Also, it’ll help us use this tool with all of its potential.

Also Read: Users Unable to Start SQL Server Database without Challenges

Benefits of the Advanced Automated Solution

Now, when we talk about the benefits of this software, we have plenty of them. Although we can not mention all of the benefits here. Therefore, we are mentioning the most common & major features that highly add value to the entire operation.

• The software can read MDF files, tables, columns, classes, indexes, triggers, stored procedures, rules, views, etc data objects.

• Two scan modes for corrupted files are present here. Quick Scan for low-level corruption & advanced scan for high-level corruption.

• Detects the SQL Server version automatically using the MDF files that users add to this viewer software which makes learning how to access MDF file easier.

• Along with MDF, this software is capable of viewing the data of NDF files as well without any errors.

• Users can save the scanned file for the future if they want to. This can help them save time for scanning the next time they want to view the files.

• There is no size limitation present in this tool which users can view their large-sized MDf files without any restrictions.

• It is also capable of viewing the deleted files. The software highlights these deleted files in red color after scanning them.

Manually Learn How to Access MDF File with SSMS

Now, as users are aware of the advanced automated solution & its benefits, it’s time for the manual solution. In case users have SQL Server installed on their server, then they can use this solution as well. However, it requires proficiency in SQL server technicalities.

 

1. Launch SSMS application & Connect to your SQL Server Instance.

2. Now, Right-click on “Databases” in Object Explorer to continue.

3. Select the “Attach…” option and Click on “Add” to Select MDF file.

4. If needed, add the LDF files as well along with the MDF files.

5. Now, Click the “OK” button to attach the database for access.

The Conclusion

Finally, now we know how to access MDF file data using both manual as well as automated solutions. Users must keep in mind that both solutions can be taken into use but based on their requirements. In a nutshell, for both beginners& experts, the automated tool is a proven solution that is both easy & efficient. Rest users can take wise decisions themselves.