Attach MS SQL database

Navigate to: Main Menu > MS SQL > Databases > Select a database > Click the Attach tab.

This tool allows you to replace your current database by attaching raw MS SQL data files (.mdf) and transaction logs (.ldf). This is particularly useful for developers using LocalDB in Visual Studio, where generating a standard .bak file might be difficult.

Limitations

Please note specific constraints when using the Attach method compared to a standard Restore:

• File Limit: You may select exactly one Data file (.mdf) and optionally one Log file (.ldf). Splitting data across multiple secondary data files (.ndf) is not supported via this interface.
• No Full Text Search: Full-text catalogs cannot be transferred using the attach method. If your database utilizes Full Text Search, you must create a standard backup (.bak) and use the Restore tab instead.

Critical Warning

Attaching files is a destructive action. The process completely overwrites the existing database. Any data currently stored in the online database will be erased and replaced with the contents of the files you attach.

Attachment Methods

1. FROM BACKUP LOCATION (Recommended)

Use this method for larger files or stable deployment.

• Prerequisite: First, upload your files using the Backup file manager or FTP.
• Workflow: Select the file(s) from the list and click ATTACH.
  • You can select just the Data file (.mdf) to let the server regenerate the log, or select both the Data and Log (.ldf) files for a complete attach.

2. UPLOAD AND ATTACH

Use this method for quick deployments of small files directly from your computer.

• Workflow: Click BROWSE or drag-and-drop your files into the window. The browser will upload the files and perform the attachment immediately.

Configuration: Change default schema to 'dbo'

We highly recommend keeping this option checked.

• Why? Local databases often run under a specific user account (e.g., "MyLaptop\User"). When attached to the server, that user does not exist, causing "Invalid Object Name" errors.
• The Fix: This option automatically re-maps all tables and procedures to the standard dbo (Database Owner) schema, ensuring your application can access the data immediately.