How to Open MDF File on Windows Machine – Unique Tips 2023

What is an MDF File?

MDF files are also known as the Masters Database File. Microsoft SQL uses .mdf files as their primary file format to store data. MDF files store crucial information. MDF files store data in the dorm of tables, columns, and rows. 

SQL Server is the simplest way to open and view MDF files. However, if you need to open an MDF file online, the Sysinfo SQL Viewer Tool is one of the best options available.

Before discussing the automated method let’s first discuss opening a MDF file SQL Server.

How Do I Open MDF File – A Detailed Insight

You cannot open MDF files directly, but you can attach them to SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and view them in the object explorer of SSMS. Once you attach them, you can easily access and read MDF files. SSMS allows a preview of the MDF file contents like the tables, functions, records, etc. The steps mentioned below explain the process to open an MDF file using SQL Server:

1. Open SSMS and connect to the SQL Server instance.
2. In the Object Explorer, right-click on the Databases folder and select Attach.
3. In the Attach Databases window, click on Add and select the MDF file.
4. Click OK to validate the selected files.
5. After following these steps, you should be able to view and access the contents of your MDF file using SQL Server Management Studio.

To view MDF files, you need to attach them to SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and view them in the object explorer of SSMS. Once connected, MDF files can be easily accessed and read. However, to open MDF database files using this process, you need to set up an SQL Server Management Studio in your system. Only if you have an SQL Server environment set up in your system, it will be possible for you to open SQL MDF files with this process.

Moreover, if you have a damaged, corrupted, or inaccessible MDF file and want to open it in the SQL server, it’s still not possible to read the MDF file following the steps mentioned above. Therefore, we suggest users choose an alternate method which is using the professional Sysinfo SQL Viewer Tool. This tool is capable of opening .mdf files online in Windows 10 or any other version.

Professional Method to Open MDF File Online

In many instances, your MDF file might become damaged or corrupted, or you may attempt to open an orphaned MDF file in order to access its content. In such scenarios, relying on manual methods won’t be effective for opening the MDF database. Sysinfo SQL Viewer Tool is an online MDF file opener designed to assist you in accessing the content of your MDF file. It allows you to inspect all the recovered data presented in a structured format. This tool not only displays the recovered data but also permits you to restore the retrieved data to the live server. It offers a lot of features some of which are discussed below.

• It extends support to MDF and NDF files generated by any version of MS SQL database files.
• Additionally, this application empowers you to repair and restore SQL database objects, including tables, records, indexes, procedures, triggers, and more.
• It supports both SQL server database files, MDF and NDF, enabling the restoration of complete SQL databases.
• The tool offers dual file recovery modes (Standard and Advanced) to effectively repair severely corrupted SQL database files.
• You can restore the retrieved SQL database items to the server and save them as scripts to your local drive.

Steps to View MDF File using Professional Approach

1. Firstly, install and launch the Sysinfo SQL Viewer Tool.
2. Hit Open to add an MDF file from your system.
3. Add the MDF file from your system. Choose the Recovery Mode and click OK.
4. Select the files from the tree-structure format and view them in the enhanced preview panel.
5. Finally, click on Upgrade to save the MDF file.

Conclusion

MDF files contain vital user data and information. In this article we have discussed the steps to open an MDF file and by using SSMS. Opening an MDF file without using the SQL Server becomes a challenge. In such instances, a professional tool emerges as the ideal solution for users who lack SQL Server Management Studio on their systems.

Frequently Asked Questions