Rebuilt Server and Saved Old Data Files

  • Hello,

    One of our servers needed to be rebuilt. Luckily, the .mdf and .ldf files were kept in tact. A new SQL Server installation was performed. Is it possible for me to just reattach the system databases?

    I was able to reattach our user databases, but don't have the DTS packages or jobs. Or is this process more complex than I this?

    Thanks!

    Melanie

  • Yes. Here is a good article that should give you the information you need about moving databases (user and system):

    http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q224071

    Gregory Larsen, DBA

    If you looking for SQL Server Examples check out my website at http://www.geocities.com/sqlserverexamples

    Gregory A. Larsen, MVP

  • Hi Greg,

    Thank you for your reply. Is it safe to detach the current system databases then reattach older .mdf and .ldf system files?

    Thanks,

    Melanie

  • I have not actually tried to move master with the directions in the KB article. I have been able to successfully accomplish a move for MODEL and MSDB. I don't think you can detach master, so review how to do that using this article. I think I might consider performing SQL backups first, plus shutting down SQL Server and making copies of all MDF, and LDF files as well. This will allow you something to go back to should you have any problems. Good luck, read the KB article completely, and possibly test on a test server, if you are still concerned.

    Gregory Larsen, DBA

    If you looking for SQL Server Examples check out my website at http://www.geocities.com/sqlserverexamples

    Gregory A. Larsen, MVP

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