Synopsis: In this article, we are going to solve the user query to view corrupted MDF file without having the SQL Server in the system. The manual method is also mentioned here as a plan B for users. Most importantly we are going to show a comparison between both the solutions for users to simply make their final decision regarding the selection of the final solution.
“Alice Jhonson, California, United States
Hello sir, I’m Alice, working in an MNC as IT head. Recently due to a massive power failure in my office, all of the SQL database MDF files caught corruption. Is there any way to open such corrupted files of SQL Server? It would be a huge help for me as I’m unable to get the relevant solution. Suggest me the best solution to view corrupted files of SQL server.”
As we can understand from the above query, users face several difficulties. To solve such issues, we can say that a lot of users lack the required knowledge. This is why through this article, we are going to solve user queries as well as provide useful information.
How to View MDF File without SQL Server Using the Automated Solution
Let’s start with the best solution that users are requesting. In our emails, users asked us to give them a solution that does not involve the SQL Server. The automated solution is the solution that we are going to talk about now.
The SQL Database Viewer Tool is the software that enables users to view the corrupted data files of their SQL server. This tool is quite unique because of the advanced features embedded in it.
Download the tool & then follow the steps mentioned below to view your MDF files without the use of SQL Server in your system.
Step-1. Launch the Tool & add the MDF files by clicking on the Open button.
Step-2. Select the scan mode as Quick Scan or Advance Scan to detect corruption.
Step-3. Now the software will scan your files >> Wait for a while till the scan completes.
Step-4. Click on the Ok button finally. This simply allows you to view all of your files simply.
Manual Method to View Corrupted MDF File Safely
We have two manual methods that users can select but only in case of an emergency or as backup plans. These two manual methods are mentioned below.
Using the SQL Server Management Studio
The SSMS is a great utility to manage the SQL server & users can also take it in use to open & access their MDF files.
Pros: It’s free & users do not have to pay anything else.
Cons: This solution has several limitations mentioned below.
- Outdated User Interface
- Threat to data Integrity
- Complex & tricky solution.
Using Microsoft Visual Studio Method
The Visual Studio is another way that helps users to learn how to view MDF file without SQL server in use. However, it also has several limitations.
Pros: The user interface is better than SQL Server Management Studio.
Cons: Below are the drawbacks of this solution mentioned.
- Requires technical Knowledge
- Not really fast like the automated solution.
Comparison of Modern & Automated Solution
Now with this comparison, users can be more clear about the pros & cons of both solutions. This can help them in making a wise decision regarding the selection of the ideal solution. Below are the factors mentioned on which we are going to compare both the solution.
Safety Measures
The automated solution is a lot safer than the manual method. The manual method holds the risk of data loss & even severe corruption. On the other hand, the automated solution maintains the data integrity & projects the data from outsider & insider threats.
Accuracy of the Results
The automated solution is able to provide users with accurate results with plenty of database objects. Users can view their tables, functions, keys, triggers, views, indexes, stored procedures, rules, etc.
Speed of the Solution
The manual solution does not have various advanced features. This is why it can take upto hours to provide results. That’s because of the manual execution of steps & slow processing time. However, the automated approach can provide results in a few minutes.
Size Limitation
The advanced software is capable of processing multiple large-sized files at once. However, the manual solution is not able to process large-size files. It hangs & shows errors when users try to do so.
Bringing It All Together
As we are finally at the last section of the article, we are hoping that now you can easily view corrupted MDF file safely. The above-mentioned automated solution is quite advanced & allows users to simply get their desired results quickly. No other solutions provide results faster than this. The manual method we discussed also works but users are requested to opt for that only as a backup option.
Clearly, learning how to view MDF file without SQL Server is a practical choice for users. The automated solution is fast, safe, as well as free. The solution is free, making it even more trendy among IT experts & Microsoft’s MVPs. Make your decision carefully as it may affect the end results severely.