What is the difference between dropping a database and taking a database offline?

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Basically, detaching/attaching is used to move database files between instances(servers) where as in Offline you can not move files. After .Take offline and then detach Database. Won't let me attach . - MSDNOffline Vs detach - MSDN - MicrosoftDifference between detaching database and bringing database offlineDatabase is not accessible when treying to get it offline - MSDNДругие результаты с сайта social.msdn.microsoft.com

Can I drop a database that is offline?

You absolutely can drop a SQL Server database that's offline, but remember that its files won't be deleted if you do.

What happens when you take database offline?

Taking the database offline is a quick way to stop the bleeding until you get the bug identified. You can then bring it back online to assess the damage within the database.

What is database offline?

A database can be taken offline either using transact-SQL or by using SQL Server management Studio (SSMS). I prefer taking database offline before dropping or deleting them. This is to avoid any mistakes or loosing data prematurely.

What happens when you drop a database?

Dropping a database deletes the database from an instance of SQL Server and deletes the physical disk files used by the database. If the database or any one of its files is offline when it is dropped, the disk files are not deleted. These files can be deleted manually by using Windows Explorer.

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