Quick Fix – SQL Error 5171: MDF Is Not A Primary Database File

Summary: Many users want to fix SQL error 5171. This problem usually occurs when attempting to access a database file that is missing or corrupted. This error indicates the SQL Server cannot find or access the required database files, such as the MDF (primary data file) or LDF (log file). Moreover, it often happens during database restore or attach operations when the specified files are unavailable or damaged. So in this blog, we will provide you with the proper manual and SQL Recovery Tool solution to fix this issue. Keep reading the blog so that you can have the best solution. Download Now   Purchase Now

Why Does the Issue ‘MDF is Not A Primary Database File’ Occur?

The SQL Error 5171 can occur due to various reasons some of which are listed further.

• The MDF or LDF is missing or not found at the specified location.
• Database files are corrupt or damaged, making them unusable.
• The path specified for the database files is incorrect or outdated.
• SQL Server service account lacks the required permissions to access the database files.
• Issues with the file system or underlying hardware can stop access to the database files.
• Database files are from a different version of SQL Server, causing compatibility issues.
• Errors or interruptions during a backup restore or file transfer process can lead to incomplete or invalid files.

These are some of the reasons why this issue has arisen. Now let us talk about the solution to this issue.

How to Fix SQL Error 5171 Issue?

In this section, we will discuss about resolving SQL Error 5171 through two primary approaches manual and professional. The manual method is cost-effective but has limitations that will be discussed further. On the other hand, the professional method uses automated tools to improve efficiency and speed up the process. First, we’ll discuss the manual process in detail, including its steps and potential drawbacks. After that, we’ll look at how an automated solution can provide a faster and more efficient recovery.

Manual Method to Repair MDF is Not A Primary Database File

Before starting, ensure that you back up your data. To fix a SQL Server database, follow these steps:

1. Open Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio with your current SQL database.
2. Now, check if the SQL Server status is online. If not, run the command ALTER DATABASE mydb SET ONLINE to bring it online.
3. Use the command ALTER DATABASE MODIFY FILE to update the SQL file.
4. After that, stop the SQL Server by clicking the STOP button.
5. Copy the MDF and LDF files to a different folder.
6. Lastly, restart the SQL Server and add the MDF and NDF files back.

This manual method can fix the SQL Server Error 5171, but it’s complex and technical. Moreover, mistakes can lead to data loss. Further, if your MDF and NDF files are often corrupt, using an automated tool might be a better solution.

Professional Method to Fix SQL Error 5171?

The MS SQL Recovery Tool software helps restore corrupt or damaged MDF files accurately, preserving the database’s structure and object integrity. Moreover, this tool also had a great user interface for the best experience for the user. Now, let us talk about the steps to use these tools.

Steps to Fix the Error of ‘MDF Is Not A Primary Database File’

1. Install and open the MS SQL Database Recovery Software.
2. Now, click Browse to locate and choose your MDF file.
3. After that, select the appropriate recovery mode to scan the MDF file.
4. Click OK to start the scanning process.
5. After the scan, click on the MDF file to preview the recovered data.
6. Enter your SQL Server account details to check the database connection.
7. Lastly, click OK to save the recovered database to your selected location.

There are complete steps to solve the issue of SQL. Moreover, this tool also provides you with some extraordinary features which are listed below.

• Fixes corrupt MDF and NDF files.
• Restores all database elements, including tables, views, triggers, and other functions.
• Saves table records of the recovered database to CSV format.
• Offers both Standard and Advanced recovery modes.
• Repairs and restores data from ROW or PAGE compressed databases.
• Allows previewing of recovered data before saving.
• Saves recovered files as SQL Server-compatible scripts with schema, username, and table names.

Conclusion

When users fix SQL error 5171, it can be a challenging problem, usually caused by missing or corrupted MDF files. You can solve it manually or with professional tools. The manual method involves detailed steps but can be complicated and risky. Alternatively, using software like SQL Database Repair offers a more efficient and user-friendly solution. Moreover, it has the features to accurately recover and restore all database elements. Choose the method that best suits your needs and make sure you backup your data before starting any repairs.

Realted Post