Summary: This blog is all about learning how to move MDF file in SQL server. There are various scenarios where users have SQL server database files in MDF format. Now, when they need to migrate this data to a new SQL server, there are several complications. Users have to make sure that they are aware of the right tool & technique. Otherwise, this task can be a mess. Moreover, there are plenty of challenges here that trouble users a lot.
All of these aspects are present in this guide for users to get a perfect solution for their SQL server migration operation with ease. In addition, the step-by-step solution for learning how to move MDF file in SQL server. The prerequisites of the operation are also there as well. This way, users can be well-prepared for their SQL Server operation.
In a nutshell, being technically aware of the concepts can help users a lot. This guide is doing exactly the same for users. With the right way, it’s not at all difficult to get the desired results. However, make sure to select only the trusted tool & technique.
How to Move MDF File in SQL Server – Quick Steps
Before moving forward let’s quickly go through the quick steps to get our desired results. For the best & simplified operation, users need to download the SQL Server Migration Tool from SysTools. So far, their solution is unmatched & no alternative can perform better than theirs.
Download the tool & then follow the four quick steps:
Step-1. Open the Utility to begin the entire operation.
Step-2. Now, Set the Migration mode “Offline” here.
Step-3. Adjust the Export Settings as per the needs.
Step-4. Finally, Hit the Export button to finish the task.
Now after learning how to move MDF file in SQL server, it’s time to move further. After performing these steps, users can also get the status report of the entire operation. This is available only in this automated tool. This status report shows the number of total files, successful files, failed files, etc. This can help them analyze the data further for more research & development.
Challenges & Needs of This File Transfer Operation
Now that we know the quick steps, it’s time to get the knowledge of the challenges that users are going to face. However, first of all, we need to focus on the user intent & need of performing this task.
Critical Needs/User Intent
- To migrate MDF files of one SQL Server to another server for upgradation.
- In case of the acquisition of one brand by another, this operation is required by users.
- The merger of two brands is another major cause of why users perform these actions.
Challenges to Learn How to Move MDF file in SQL Server
- Damaged database objects in MDF file are difficult to move to the database.
- Compatibility issues in SQL server file is another major challenge for users.
- The lack of technicalities in users is one of the most challenging factors.
- Technical errors can occur anytime & having no Plan B is critical.
- Selection of the right tool & technique for the task is also tough.
Also Read: Migrate SQL Server 2012 to 2019 Step by Step with Ease
How to Move MDF File in SQL Server Step by Step
Let’s go through the prerequisites of the entire operation that users need to know if they opt for the advanced automated solution. Download the tool from the above section then follow these prerequisites & system requirements.
Pre-Requisites
- Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 or above is necessary for users to have in their system.
- Users with Windows OS 10, 8, 7 (32 & 64 Bit) or Windows Server 2016, 2012R2, 2008, must launch the tool with “Run as Administrator” mode.
System Specifications (Minimum)
-
- Processor: Intel® Core™ 2 Duo CPU E4600 @ 2.40GHz 2.39GHz, equivalent or above.
- Storage Space: There must be a minimum of 100MB empty space in the hard disk.
- RAM: There must be a minimum of 4GB of RAM in the user’s system for this task.
Step-by-step tutorial of the entire operation:
Step-1. Launch the Tool & then Go to the Open option.
Step-2. Select Offline Mode & Check the Auto-Detect option.
Step-3. Preview the Data Files & then Go to the Export options.
Step-4. Adjust the Export options as per your requirements here.
Step-5. Now, at last, Click on the Export button to finish this task.
Features of the Automated Utility
The automated utility is quite advanced & this is why experts trust this. Now users must know about these features in order to utilize this tool to its utmost potential. Moreover, it can help users in getting a detailed understanding of the entire task.
- Users can migrate the database using offline MDF files to the Live SQL server database.
- It’s also possible for users to migrate the database from one live SQL Server to another.
- Migrating the database from SQL scripts to both live & offline servers is also possible.
- This smart utility is good enough to repair the damaged database & then migrate it.
- Learn how to move MDF file in SQL server with filters to allow selective migration.
- An option to either create a new database or migrate the data to an existing one.
- One can move the database with schema or with schema & data using this tool.
- SQL Server 2019, 2017, 2016, 2014, 2012, 2008, 2005, etc are compatible.
The Final Verdict
After discussing all the crucial aspects of the topic, users need to make a decision regarding the tool & technique selection. As per the above facts, selecting the automated solution is what users need the most. The automated solutions can help users learn how to move MDF file in SQL server with utmost perfection. On the other hand, the wrong decision can severely affect users. Evidently, even IT experts recommend users with the automated solution.
