How to Get Database Files (.mdf and .ldf)
This guide explains how to extract the raw data (*.mdf) and log (*.ldf) files from your hosted MS SQL database. This process copies the internal database files to your storage area, allowing you to download them directly.
Important Considerations Before You Begin
- Temporary Downtime: In order to copy the files, the system must detach your database. This means your database will be unavailable during the operation. It will be automatically re-attached once the copy process is complete.
- Full Text Search Limitations: Full text catalogs will not be copied using this method. If your database utilizes Full Text Search, we strongly recommend using the standard Backup method instead to ensure all data is preserved.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Navigate to Your Database
- Log in to your control panel.
- Click on the MS SQL section in the main left-hand menu.
- From the Databases List, click on the name of the specific database you wish to manage.
- Initiate File Extraction
- In the specific database menu, locate and click the Get database files tab.
- The system will suggest default filenames. You can keep these or rename them if you prefer.
- Click the Get files button to proceed.
- Access Your Files
- Once the process is complete, both the data (
*.mdf) and log (*.ldf) files will be placed in your selected backup location.
- You can access and download these files immediately by going to the Backup file manager tab within the database menu, or by connecting via FTP.