Your SQL Server database won't attach, the MDF file is damaged, and the tables your business depends on are out of reach. A disk fault, a virus, a power cut or an improper shutdown can all cause this. Recovery SQL Database Files, sold by the vendor as Kernel for SQL Database, is built for this situation. It reads the damaged file directly and tries to rebuild what was inside.
Quick facts
- Purpose: repair corrupt or damaged SQL Server database files (MDF and NDF)
- Platform: Windows
- Price: $299.00 for the licensed version
- Trial: free evaluation version that shows recovered items but does not let you save them
- SQL Server support: the vendor says all versions of SQL Server are supported
Key features
Get tables, views, indexes and stored procedures back from a damaged file
The tool recovers tables, views, indexes, stored procedures, unique and primary keys, and UNICODE characters from a damaged SQL database.
Recover deleted records and keep them apart
The software recovers permanently or partly deleted records. It saves them in separate batch files, so you can tell them apart from the rest of the data.
Repair several MDF and NDF files in one pass
You can recover more than one MDF and NDF file in a single cycle. The vendor also says it handles large databases well.
Rebuild the database from an automatic script
The software automatically creates a database rebuilding batch to make recreating the database easier. It can also create a backup of the restored database.
Who it's for
It suits SQL Server administrators and small IT teams who have a damaged MDF file and no usable backup. Run the trial first. It lets you check what can be recovered before you pay.
Pros and cons
- Pro: the trial has the complete feature set, so you can see the recovery results before buying.
- Pro: deleted records are kept in separate batch files.
- Pro: it covers a wide range of SQL Server versions.
- Con: the trial cannot save any recovered items.
- Con: it is a paid tool at $299.00, and the vendor's page does not list system requirements.
- Con: the product page gives no recovery success rates, so you need the trial to judge your own file.
FAQs
Can I try it before paying?
Yes. The free trial lets you analyze the damaged database and preview results. You can't save anything until you buy a license.
Which files does it repair?
It repairs MDF and NDF files from SQL Server.
Does it work with large databases?
The vendor says it works more proficiently with large-sized SQL databases.
Can it bring back deleted records?
It recovers permanently or partly deleted records and saves them in separate batch files.
Is there a money-back option?
The vendor's site links to a 100% money-back policy page. Read its terms before you buy.
System requirements
- Processor: Pentium class
- Memory: 64 MB RAM
- Disk space: 50 MB
- Operating systems: Windows, including Windows 8.1, 8, 7, Vista and XP, plus Windows Server editions