An SQL server database lies at the helm of all the data transactions in an organization. Keeping it in a healthy state is of utmost significance. Still, if unfortunately, it becomes corrupt, the damage could be severe. From minor query errors to significant data loss, it could be anything and everything, rendering your database inaccessible and bringing your business to a halt. What should be your modus operandi in such a crucial situation?
Well! To start with, you should not use the damaged database anymore and try checking the error logs and Windows Event logs to find the root cause. You may also use the DBCC CHECKDB command to detect the error and the exact corruption location in the database. These prompt actions will help in the repair and recovery options.
Among the several methods of data recovery, using a recent backup is the safest and most reliable one. In this blog, we will discuss this topic in detail. Alongside, we will also talk about the role of professional SQL recovery software such as Stellar Repair for MS SQL in hassle-free data recovery.
Restore a corrupt Database from the BAK File using SSMS
The user-friendly Graphical User Interface (GUI) of Server Management Studio (SSMS) makes it convenient to restore the database from a backup file. Here is how you can do it.
- Start Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio
- Connect to your SQL Server database instance
- In the window that appears, look for Databases in the Object Explorer pane on the left side.
- Right-click Databases > Restore Database
- In the Restore Database dialog box, click General on the left pane if not selected by default.
- In the left pane of the Restore Database dialog box, under the source section, there is the option to select Database or Device.
- We have to restore the corrupt database from a backup file, so it is better to select the Device radio button.
- Select Device to get the Select backup device dialog box.
- Click File > Add > Select the file path of the backup database on the left side, as illustrated by the numbering in the screenshot above.
- Click OK to start processing the SQL Server
- You will see the selected backup (.bak) file in the Restore plan section under Backup Sets to Restore
- Click on the check box under Restore > OK
- This will restore the database successfully, as can be seen in the screenshot above.
- You may try more options by clicking on Files and Options from the left pane, depending on your database restore requirement.
Database Restore by using T-SQL
As an alternative method, you may use T-SQL commands in the SQL Query Builder window to perform this task. For this, you should have a recent backup of the damaged database.
Create a database backup file
If you do not have a backup, use the following command to create one, so that you may use it to restore the corrupt database when required. Here is the T-SQL command
BACKUP DATABASE [TestDB] TO DISK = N’C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL16.SQLEXPRESS\MSSQL\Backup\TestDB.bak’ WITH NOFORMAT, NOINIT, NAME = N’TestDB-Full Database Backup’, SKIP, NOREWIND, NOUNLOAD, STATS = 10
GO
Restore the database from the backup file
Next, use the backup file to restore the corrupt database through the following T-SQL command.
USE [master]
RESTORE DATABASE [TestDB] FROM DISK = N’C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL16.SQLEXPRESS\MSSQL\Backup\TestDB.bak’ WITH FILE = 1, NOUNLOAD, STATS = 5
GO
These methods are core technical and may lead to more errors, hindering your work for a long time. You need to possess in-depth knowledge of the involved technical jargon to execute the commands with perfection. In case you do not want undue hassles and wish to recover data from a corrupted database with ease, you may try professional SQL recovery software. Stellar Repair for MS SQL is a suitable application to help your cause.
Recover data using Stellar Repair for MS SQL
The software can repair a heavily corrupted SQL database quickly and effectively, saving your precious time and helping your business restart functioning properly. Here are some of its valuable plus points to look for.
- Restores all the database objects, including indexes, tables, deleted records, triggers, stored procedures, etc.
- Fixes the I/O consistency-based SQL errors, including Error 823, 824, 825, which lead to database corruption
- Fixes the ‘can’t reach database’ error to restore your database
- Resolves Error 8946, which can be one of the reasons behind data corruption
- Resets the password of a protected database file in MS SQL 2017, 2016, and 2014
- Can save up to 8 tables at a time by using the fast parallel processing technique
- Allows the option to save the database file to a live database, a new database, or other formats
- Recovers deleted table records from the SQL database
- Can repair SQL databases on Windows as well as on the Linux platform.
- Supports MS SQL Server 2022, 2019, and previous versions
How to use Stellar Repair for MS SQL
Using this professional SQL recovery software is simple and quick.
- Download and install the software and start it on your system
- Select the corrupt database from your system using the Browse or Search options
- Click on the Repair button to initiate the repair
- Preview the selected database and click the ‘Save’ button to save the database you just repaired
For details, browse through the Installation Guide, User Manual, and Product Catalog of the software.
How to buy Stellar Repair for MS SQL?
Ordering the professional SQL recovery software is easy and convenient.
- Visit the landing page of Stellar Repair for MS SQL,
- Click the Buy Now button
- In the resulting page of the software, choose from Corporate, Technician, and Toolkit editions
- Click the Buy Now button below any of the editions to proceed with the payment.
Besides, you may also download and install the free trial version of the professional SQL recovery software. It will scan and preview recoverable SQL Server database objects.
Conclusion
A corrupt or damaged SQL database can stall the routine working of an organization, making it inevitable to fix the issue instantly. Before starting the resolution, knowing the root cause will help to fix the issue in a better way. For this, you will need to check the Windows Event logs and error logs. Using the DBCC CHECKDB command can help to find the exact error.
To deal with the issue, admins may use the GUI of the SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or run the T-SQL commands on the Query Builder window of SSMS. Both methods can resolve the issue. However, to recover the data, you must have a recently created healthy database backup. You can create it by using the SS<S GUI or the T-SQL commands.
These methods can recover the data, but require you to have core technical skills. Often, they may also delay the resolution, wasting your time. To avert such shortcomings, it is wise to use professional SQL recovery software, such as Stellar Repair for MS SQL. Loaded with beneficial features, it is quick and easy to download, install, and use.
You can buy this professional SQL recovery software from the official Stellar Info website. Depending on your preferred edition from Corporate, Toolkit, and Technician, choose the suitable one and place your order for Stellar Repair for MS SQL. If you want it with limited restrictions, the free trial version is also available for quick download.
