Download.it search icon
Advertisement

Repairs corrupted SQL Server databases, recovering tables and keys without needing backup copies

Repairs corrupted SQL Server databases, recovering tables and keys without needing backup copies

Vote (3 votes)

Program license Trial version

Developer Open File Tools

Version 2.1.7.0

Works under Windows

Vote

(3 votes)

Developer

Open File Tools

Works under

Windows

Program license

Trial version

Version

2.1.7.0

Pros

  • Repairs corrupted MDF and NDF files without requiring a backup
  • Supports all major Microsoft SQL Server versions (6.0–2016)
  • Allows data preview before recovery
  • Exports recovered data to MDF, NDF, or SQL script formats
  • Handles both standard and custom MDF files

Cons

  • Success of recovery may vary based on severity of corruption
  • Interface is functional but may appear dated to some users
  • Advanced features primarily aimed at experienced users

Advanced tool for repairing and recovering corrupted SQL Server MDF database files.

Comprehensive MDF File Recovery Solution

MDF Open File Tool is engineered to assist IT professionals and database administrators in repairing and recovering damaged Microsoft SQL Server database files—commonly known as MDF files. When critical SQL data becomes inaccessible due to file corruption, this utility streamlines the recovery process, offering a practical alternative to costly database downtime or incomplete manual attempts.

Wide Compatibility and Flexible Recovery Options

Supporting Microsoft SQL Server versions from 6.0 up to 2016, MDF Open File Tool covers a broad range of environments. It reads both primary (MDF) and secondary (NDF) database files, accommodating systems that rely on multiple data files. The software’s file analysis process works independently of backup files, so recovery is possible even if no recent backup exists.

Intuitive Diagnostics and Preview Features

The workflow is straightforward: users select the corrupted MDF file, initiate diagnostics, and review a preview of recoverable data—tables, keys, and custom objects included. This preview helps verify which elements are salvageable before committing to data restoration. Advanced algorithms inspect tables, indexes, relationships, and other database structures, accurately identifying damage and reconstructing content where feasible.

Professional Data Export and Restoration

Recovered content can be exported directly back into operational MDF and NDF formats or generated as a set of SQL scripts for manual database restoration or transfer. This flexibility aids in integrating recovered data into a new or existing SQL Server instance, minimizing workflow disruptions. The tool also offers options for comparing restored data against source material, providing assurance of data integrity before uploading to a live environment.

Broad Use Case Support

MDF Open File Tool is designed to parse even non-standard MDF files, making it suitable for customized databases created by third-party or in-house developers. The application supports recovery of primary and secondary keys and is capable of restoring recent changes, expanding its usefulness in scenarios where data loss is discovered belatedly.

Usability and Performance

The application features a clear interface tailored for IT professionals, but its straightforward step-by-step process is accessible enough for those with moderate technical expertise. The analysis and recovery speeds are dependent on the extent of file corruption and the database’s size, but the process typically outpaces manual restoration efforts.

Pros

  • Repairs corrupted MDF and NDF files without requiring a backup
  • Supports all major Microsoft SQL Server versions (6.0–2016)
  • Allows data preview before recovery
  • Exports recovered data to MDF, NDF, or SQL script formats
  • Handles both standard and custom MDF files

Cons

  • Success of recovery may vary based on severity of corruption
  • Interface is functional but may appear dated to some users
  • Advanced features primarily aimed at experienced users