SQL Server is seriously evolved a lot from its initial days till now. The recent SQL versions like 2019, 2017, 2016, 2014, 2012, etc are quite advanced. However, due to various versions, users often get confused about the location of their MDF files in the system. Learning how to find MDF file location in SQL Server 204, 2016, & 2017 is a commonly asked query. Especially from new users as they aren’t able to remember all the versions.
There are some issues also present in the SQL Server database that users aren’t aware of & which is why they are unable to find the location of the data files. Hence, we are here to assist them & solve their misery to learn how to find the MDF file location. You may not know but there are several errors due to which you may not be able to find the location of your data files.
This guide is to be all about finding the location of files & also the issues that resist users to get their files. Reading this entire guide can be very helpful for you guys to be a master of this topic without any issues. So, let’s begin with learning the location of MDF files of different versions.
How to Find the MDF File Location – Here’s The Location of These Versions
Now in this section, we are going to mention the location of MDF files in SQL Server 2014, 2016, 2017 & 2019.
By default, we can say that common files have the location as – :\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\nnn\. Here, the C drive is the default location in the majority of SQL Server versions.
Let’s have a look at the MDF file location in different SQL Server database versions.
SQL Server Version 2014
C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL12.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA\TechForums19.mdf
SQL Server Version 2016
C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL13.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA\TechForums19.mdf
2017 SQL Server Version
C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL14.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA\TechForums19.mdf
2019 SQL Server Version
C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL15.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA\TechForums19.mdf
These are the default locations of the MDF files in different SQL versions. However, due to some errors, there are scenarios when the SQL Server can’t read the SQL data file. If this happens to you then we have the right solution. But we need to know the causes first. Let’s learn both respectively.
Learned How to Find MDF File Location in SQL Server? Know the Causes Now
We have several causes that may cause the issues in your MDF files. These issues create errors in the MDF files. The major causes are listed below:
- Corruption of Data File Due to Virus
Cyber attacks like viruses, ransomware, malware, etc are the major issues that cause restrictions for the SQL Server. These corrupt files create several errors in the SQL Server. - Restricted Permissions to the Files
In several scenarios, users accidentally change their MDF files’ permission. Inadequate permissions to the files restrict users to access their data files making them learn how to find the MDF file location. - Oversized MDF Data Files
The MDF data files with large data in them often get corrupted. This is why experts recommend that users should always keep files a little empty. Large-sized data files are more likely to catch corruption in comparison to small size files. - Sudden Power Failure
Make sure that you have a decent power supply. This is because the sudden power cut & inappropriate shutdown create errors in the processing of data files.
Automatically Learn How to Find the MDF File Location
Using the modern approach that can easily counter the above-discussed issues of the MDF file is the right decision. When we talk about the modern solution, we can’t forget to mention the SQL Database Recovery Tool & SQL Database Viewer Software.
The viewer software is quite helpful in just viewing the data files that are corrupt. On the other hand, the recovery software repair & recover the data files for users. These tools are so futuristic that no other solution can match their level. The best thing about them is that these tools are affordable. Even the Viewer is totally free of cost.
Now as you guys know how to find MDF file location in SQL Server, it’s time to solve the corruption. Download the recovery tool for free & then follow these steps with respective images to remove the corruption.
Step-1. Launch the advanced Utility & Click the Open button to add corrupted files.
Step-2. Select the Quick or Advanced Scan option to detect the corruption in data.
Step-3. From the SQL Server, CSV File, Script File option, Select Destination.
Step-4. Finally, Click on the Export or Save button to get the best results.
In A Nutshell
Now that we know how to find MDF file location in SQL Server, it’s time to end this article on a final note. This task isn’t that difficult. Users should take care that no other factors are causing hindrance to their SQL Server MDF files. The more we learn the technicalities, the more we can easily solve the issues.
In case your files get corrupted, then the above-mentioned tool can be your best way to get the expected results without any failure in the first attempt. Do not miss out on any of the key aspects & steps to avoid any blunder. Having the right tools at the right time with the right technique will easily provide unmatched results.
Also Read: Repair Damaged PST File – 2022 Latest Guide for Best Results
