Summary: I would like to tell you in this blog post how to restore SQL database NDF files and also highlight some of the reasons why this action might be considered necessary. We intend to make such knowledge available through our blog.
To recover the SQL Server database from NDF files that hold secondary data, make sure that you have a complete backup of the database and the transaction log. The NDF files only serve as parts of the data storage system; hence, on their own, they can’t be used for total recovery. SQL Server allows attaching any primary MDF files to the corresponding NDF files using the `CREATE DATABASE … FOR ATTACH` command.
To do this, use SQL Server Management Studio by right-clicking if you are restoring a database. Full backups as well as transaction backups must be fixed to ensure data consistency.
Understanding the Importance of NDF Files in SQL Server
An NDF file, or non-primary data file, is a type of data file used by Microsoft SQL to store data. Unlike the primary data file (MDF), which holds the main database data and system tables, NDF files are additional data files that can be used to store user data in a database.Â
Typically, these files are used to spread database objects over numerous files and file groups, thus enhancing their efficiency as well as their management. When it comes to large databases, NDF files come in handy since they allow for improved access speed by preventing input-output contention by spreading data across several disks or storage devices. Such files are not separate entities but should always be linked to a SQL Server database’s primary data file.
How to Restore SQL Database NDF Files Manually?
NDF files using SSMS :Â
- Firstly, launch SQL Server Management Studio.
- Now connect to the SQL Server instance: To connect to the SQL Server instance.
- First, the primary MDF file must be restored if it still needs to be done.
- NDF files attach:
Get to know where NDF files can be found on your system.
Utilize the “Attach” function in SSMS to include the NDF files.
Please ensure a successful attachment receipt and database function.
NDF files using T-SQL :Â
- Database Restore: Use the restore command to recover the primary database if necessary.
- Attach Database: Employ the CREATE DATABASE… FOR ATTACH command to include the NDF files.
What Happens If the Manual Method Fails?Â
If the manual method fails or doesn’t work properly for restoring SQL database NDF files and the user is facing issues with the restoration, they can easily restore the SQL database NDF files using our SysTools SQL Recovery Tool. The following steps show how to utilize the tool. They are straightforward and without any complications, which makes it easier for non-technical people to restore their databases.
Steps to restore SQL database NDF files :Â
- First, install the software on your system.
- Now click on the open tab to open the MDF file from its location.
- Select the damaged file and click to open.
- Now choose the NDF mode option and select the version of NDF files.
- After scanning, this software shows a complete SQL database object table, function, etc.
- The primary database, i.e., the chosen MDF file, must be associated with the NDF file.
- To input NDF files, pick the second radio button, then add them using the Add Files/Folder option. Finally, click on OK.
- Now, this software will display the export report on the screen so the user can see what’s happening.
- At last, click OK to export the file.
Top Practices for Restore SQL Database NDF Files
Regular Backups: You must always remember to take regular backups, whether it’s the MDF file or the NDF file; backups are essential for both files.
Data Integrity Checks: Whenever you perform a restoration, make sure to check the data integrity afterward.
Monitoring: You need to monitor the database’s performance after the restoration to identify any variations.
