How do I access SQL database files?

Question

You have two native options for finding out where the SQL server stores its database files: either right-click on the instance name in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and navigate to the 'Database Settings' tab, or use a T-SQL query.

How do I view a database file?

In Windows Explorer, navigate to the drive or folder containing the Access database file you want to open and double-click the database. Access starts and the database is opened.

Where are SQL database files stored?

SQL Server databases are stored in the file system in files. Files can be grouped into filegroups. For more information about files and filegroups, see Database Files and Filegroups. When people gain access to an instance of SQL Server they are identified as a login.

How do I find all database files in SQL Server?

If you ever need to know where your database files are located, run the following T-SQL code: USE master; SELECT name 'Logical Name', physical_name 'File Location' FROM sys. master_files; This will return a list of all data files and log files for the SQL Server instance.

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