SQL Server Database is in Recovery Pending State: Guide

Introduction

In the world of data management, SQL Server databases play a pivotal role in storing and retrieving valuable information for businesses and organizations. However, even the most robust systems can encounter unexpected issues, and one of the most concerning situations is when a SQL Server Database is in Recovery Pending State. This state signifies that the database is not accessible due to an ongoing recovery process. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the reasons behind a SQL Server database being in a Recovery Pending state and provide actionable steps to resolve the issue.

Reasons for “SQL Server Database is in Recovery Pending State”

The “Recovery Pending” state in SQL Server occurs when the database is unable to recover and bring itself online. This can happen for various reasons, including unexpected shutdowns, hardware failures, or issues with the database files themselves. When a database enters this state, it is effectively in limbo – not fully operational but also not completely offline.

The reasons are listed below:

Sudden System Shutdowns: If the SQL Server instance experiences an abrupt shutdown, it can lead to the database being marked as “Recovery Pending” during the subsequent startup.

Corrupted Database Files: Corruption in the database’s MDF (Main Data File) or NDF (Secondary Data File) files can prevent the database from recovering properly.

Insufficient Disk Space: If there isn’t enough space on the disk where the database files are stored, it can hinder the recovery process.

Hardware Failures: Issues with the storage system or other hardware components can cause databases to enter the recovery pending state.

Transaction Log Issues: Problems with the transaction log, such as a full log or a corrupted log file, can disrupt the recovery process.

SQL Recovery Pending Fix: Using Manual Method

Method 1: Mark Database in Emergency Mode and Initiate Forceful Repair

When your SQL database is stuck in the “Pending” state, you can try these steps to bring it back to normal:

Emergency Mode: Start by marking the database in EMERGENCY mode. This mode allows read-only access and is typically used by administrators to troubleshoot database issues.

ALTER DATABASE [DBName] SET EMERGENCY;GOALTER DATABASE [DBName] SET SINGLE_USER;GO

Forceful Repair: Initiate a repair process using the DBCC CHECKDB command with the ‘REPAIR_ALLOW_DATA_LOSS’ option. This attempts to fix the issues in the database, but note that it might result in data loss.

DBCC CHECKDB ([DBName], REPAIR_ALLOW_DATA_LOSS) WITH ALL_ERRORMSGS;GOALTER DATABASE [DBName] SET MULTI_USER;GO

Method 2: Mark Database in Emergency Mode, Detach and Re-attach

Here’s another approach to bringing your SQL database back to normal:

Emergency Mode: Set the database to EMERGENCY mode to grant limited access and suspend logging.

ALTER DATABASE [DBName] SET EMERGENCY;ALTER DATABASE [DBName] SET MULTI_USER;

Detach and Re-attach: Detach the corrupted database and then re-attach it. This process helps create a fresh log file and rebuild the database.

EXEC sp_detach_db ‘[DBName]’;EXEC sp_attach_single_file_db @DBName = ‘[DBName]’, @physname = N'[mdf path]’;

Note: To fix the “Database in Pending State” issue, you can try these methods: repair the database with possible data loss or rebuild the database log. Remember, manual steps are risky, so make sure to have backups before trying. If these methods don’t work or you’re unsure,  I’ll recommend you to use the professional tool by clicking on the attached link: SQL Server Database is in Recovery Pending State

Benefits of Using a Professional Tool to Fix ” Recovery Pending In SQL Server”:

Repair Any Version: 

Whether you’re using an older or newer version of SQL Server, this tool can handle and repair corrupt, inaccessible, or damaged database files from all versions.

Comprehensive Recovery: 

It recovers all components of your MS SQL database, such as tables, views, stored procedures, triggers, functions, and more. Even deleted records can be recovered.

Versatile Recovery Modes: 

The tool provides two different recovery modes, giving you options to restore your MDF files based on your needs.

Conversion Flexibility: 

You can restore MySQL database files to either a SQL Server database or a SQL Server compatible script format, making migration and recovery seamless.

Multiple File Recovery: 

It’s not just about one file – the tool can repair multiple MDF and NDF files simultaneously, streamlining your recovery process.

Deleted Record Recovery: 

Even if records were deleted, the tool can recover both regular and advanced deleted records from your SQL database.

Preview Before Saving: 

You get a chance to preview the content of your database before finalizing the recovery, ensuring you’re restoring the right data.

Data Integrity: 

The software ensures that your original data structure and properties remain intact throughout the restoration process.

Selective Restoration: 

You can choose to restore either the schema part, data, or both from the corrupt MDF file, giving you control over what gets recovered.

Wide Compatibility: 

The tool supports various MS SQL Server versions, ranging from 2000 to the latest 2019, ensuring compatibility with your system.

Using a professional tool for resolving the database recovery pending offers these advantages, providing a reliable and effective solution to get your database back on track.

Conclusion

Dealing with a “SQL Server Database is in Recovery Pending State” might seem scary, but understanding what’s going on and how to fix it can make it much easier. Just follow the steps in this guide to get your database working again. Remember, it’s important to back up your data regularly, keep an eye on your database, and take care of it to prevent these issues. And if things don’t work out, don’t worry use a professional tool, you can easily get your SQL Server database back on track, recover your important data, and have everything running smoothly again.

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