What are MDF and LDF files?

What is the purpose of MDF and LDF files?

MDF stands for Main Database File and contains all the information in a database. LDF records all the transactions and changes to the database. The ldf is critical for disaster recovery.

What is the purpose of an LDF file?

The LDF file is the transaction log that allows you to perform “point in time” restores if you have system failures. The way it works is that you can restore from your last full backup and “replay” the transactions from the transaction log file.

What is MDF file used for?

A file with . mdf extension is a Master Database File used by Microsoft SQL Server to store user data. It is of prime importance as all the data is stored in this file. The MDF file stores users data in relational databases in the form columns, rows, fields, indexes, views, and tables.

What is the difference between log file and MDF file?

LDF vs MDF A log database file, or LDF, is essentially a log file that contains transaction details in a server. This database is typically used as a backup file. MDF is a component of MSSQL files that generates a database to store data such as account information, personnel information, and market trends.