Microsoft SQL Server uses master database files, or MDFs, to store data. It is referred to as the primary database file and contains both data and schema. In a relational database, MDF holds user data as tables, columns, rows, triggers, functions, indexes, and views. Each database in SQL Server has its own primary MDF file.

Now, in this post,, we will discuss how to open MDF files and we will use two methods: a manual method and an automatic method to complete this task. 

Location of the MDF file

Default MDF file location in SQL Server 2019

C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL15.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA

Default MDF file location in SQL Server 2017

C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL14.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA

Default MDF file location in SQL Server 2016

C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL13.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA

Default MDF file location in SQL Server 2014

C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL12.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA

Default MDF file location in SQL Server 2012

C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL11.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA

Default MDF file location in SQL Server 2008

C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\MSSQL10.MSSQLSERVER\MSSQL\DATA

How are MDF files opened?

You can use the MDF Viewer tool and SQL Server (SSMS) to open MDF files. We’ll open MDF either with or without SQL Server in this case.

  • In SQL Server Management Studio, open the MDF file.
  • Attach is the name of this technique. The procedures listed below should help you open the MDF file using SSMS.
  • the SQL Server Management Studio window
  • Access the SQL Server instance by connecting.
  • Right-click the database in the Sidebar and choose Attach.
  • Click the Add button and go to the location of your database in the Attach Databases window.
  • Select the MDF file by clicking the database.
  • In order to attach the database, click the OK button twice.
  • Close SSMS and execute it as an administrator if you have Microsoft SQL Server Error: 5120. Attach the MDF after that as an administrator.

Method: Automatic resolution with a third-party tool:-

 Now, we will use a third party tool FreeViewer MDF Viewer Tool. It’s trustworthy and fast.

  • Install the MDF Viewer Tool after downloading it.
  • Launch the tool by selecting Open.
  • Click the Open button after choosing the MDF file you want to open.
  • Select the Auto-detect SQL server file version checkbox while using Quick Scan.
  • To begin the scanning procedure, click the OK button.
  • After that, the programme will preview the contents in the MDF file.

Key features:-

  • Read SQL Server 2019 & Below Corrupt & Inaccessible MDF File
  • There is no file size restriction when scanning MDF files with any SQL Server version that supports Windows versions 10, 8.1, 8, and earlier.
  • View All Columns, Keys, Triggers, and Indexes in the SQL Server Database

Conclusion:-

We have discussed both a manual technique and an automatic method to Open an MDF File because of its importance and necessity. However, manual techniques are time-consuming and risk losing data. In that scenario, a third-party solution is recommended.