I need to read some data from a database given by its backup file. So, I issue the RESTORE DATABASE
command, which creates two files – the database MDF file and the log LDF file.
Is it possible to restore the database without creating the LDF file?
Best Answer
In brief: NO.
The transaction log file (the
.ldf
file) is a vital and absolutely necessary part of any SQL Server database. You cannot skip this, you cannot opt to not have it - just doesn't work. SQL Server must have a transaction log stored in a file - no way around that.