What is the purpose of an LDF file?

Question

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. 16 июл. 2020 г.

What is the purpose of LDF?

A log file or LDF(Log Database File) is a database file of Microsoft SQL Server, which stores all the transaction logs/events, which executes on the database. The main purpose of using log file in SQL Server is to rollback the database in case of data loss. Log file uses the same filename as its associated MDF file.

Do you need the LDF file?

The LDF file is the transaction log and is required for all SQL server configurations. Depending on the recovery mode, will determine how it is used. However all queries basically get stored here until successfully committed to the database (MDF). You will not be able to delete it while SQL server service is running.

Is it safe to delete LDF file?

You should not delete any of the database files since it can severely damage your database! If you run out of disk space you might want to split your database in multiple parts. This can be done in the database's properties.

What is the difference between a MDF and LDF file?

MDF stands for Main Database File and contains all the information in a database. LDF records all the transactions and changes to the database.

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