This article highlights key indicators that an MDF file is corrupt, possible causes of MDF corruption, and a quick way to fix it.
DataNumen SQL Recovery is the most effective way to fix corrupt SQL Server database files:
Every SQL database comes with an MDF file. This is where the database information is stored. If this file is damaged, then users cannot access the database.
Signs that your MDF file is corrupt
As stated above, if your MDF file is corrupt, then you won’t access your SQL database. Every time you try to, an error message is likely to pop up. For example, if you see a message saying ‘Error 9004: an error occurred while processing the log for database’, it is a sign that data associated with transaction logs of your database is damaged.
You may come across an error message that looks like ‘Msg 7105, Level xx, State x, Line x
The Database ID xx, Page (xxx:xxx), slot x for LOB data type node does not exist. This is usually caused by transactions that can read uncommitted data on a data page. Run DBCC CHECKTABLE’. Note: the x’s represent numeric values associated with a specific page on the MDF file. Such errors are associated with damaged data on an MDF file page. The problem is that corruption on a single page inhibits the proper functioning of other pages.
Other errors that indicate that your MDF file is corrupt are associated with damage to the metadata. For example, if you get an error similar to ‘Error: 211, Severity: 23, STATE: xx. Possible SCHEMA corruption. Run DBCC CHECKCATALOG’, there is a high probability that you won’t be able to access any table on the database before fixing the problem.
Possible Causes of a Corrupt MDF File
There are various error messages associated with MDF corruption. Damage to transaction logs, MDF page data, or metadata can be as a result of an array of issues. For instance, a human error such as deleting data unknowingly or performing unscheduled maintenance procedures can cause the entire database to stop working.
Other factors such as virus attacks, abrupt power failure when the database is open, and failure of your serve hardware can have adverse effects on your MDF file. As a precautionary measure, conduct frequent training to your staff, especially new and inexperienced IT experts, on how to manage SQL databases. Also, protect your systems against intrusion by unauthorized persons by using secure networks. Resources such as power backup systems can help you avoid sudden interruptions of electricity supply.
Get a quick fix for your MDF file with DataNumen SQL Recovery
It is a hard task to attain 100% protection against data corruption. Therefore, it is always good to plan for the worst. This where the DataNumen SQL Recovery software comes in. In the event that your MDF file gets damaged, this tool gives you a quick way to fix the damage and get your database up and running. By using this software, you minimize the negative impact on your business by ensuring that you don’t deny your clients essential services for long.
Using this software is simple. Just select the MDF file you want to recover as well as associated NDF files. Then set the output parameters such as file format, name, and where you want to save the information, and click ‘Start Recovery’. Wait for the recovery process to end then you can access your recovered data. This simplifies the recovery of your MDF file, as you don’t have to waste time trying to diagnose and fix errors manually.