---
title: "Restore SQL database from disc copy backup"  
description: "Restore SQL database from disc copy backup"  
author: "Anonymous User"  
published: 2015-06-19  
updated: 2015-06-19  
canonical: https://www.mindstick.com/forum/23306/restore-sql-database-from-disc-copy-backup  
category: "mssql server"  
tags: ["mssql server"]  
reading_time: 1 minute  

---

# Restore SQL database from disc copy backup

I have [managed](https://www.mindstick.com/forum/33928/what-is-managed-or-unmanaged-code-in-c-sharp) to drop an SQL [express](https://www.mindstick.com/forum/156025/how-to-use-garmin-express-software) 2008 [database](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/12226/use-of-database-in-sencha-extjs-and-insert-record-from-user-form-using-ajax), that I accessed using SQL [Management studio](https://www.mindstick.com/forum/159668/what-is-the-difference-between-sql-server-and-sql-management-studio).

I don't have a backup of the database created through Management Studio or SQL, but I do have a disc copy of my entire c: drive made prior to a machine rebuild 4 weeks ago (A [previous](https://yourviews.mindstick.com/view/81421/unlock-2-0-is-just-like-previous-corona-lockdowns) [installation](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/711/php-installation-on-windows) of the dropped database did exist at this stage). The disc backup contains all the [databases](https://www.mindstick.com/startup/34/airbyte-the-open-source-platform-simplifying-data-integration-for-warehouses-lakes-and-databases) (2) and [versions](https://answers.mindstick.com/qa/49863/list-the-versions-of-mac-os-x), that I require.

Can I [restore](https://yourviews.mindstick.com/story/1480/ways-to-restore-ecosystems-and-heal-the-planet) the databases from copies of raw files form a backup disc? If so is this complicated? Which files would I need to be copy and to where?

## Replies

### Reply by Anonymous User

(if needed) re-install SQL Server (Express) - you should make sure to install the version with the [Management](https://www.mindstick.com/articles/23490/tips-for-better-cash-flow-management) Studio\
Copy the "raw" files (*.mdf and *.ldf) to the default data directory\
In SQL Server Management Studio (Express), in the Object Explorer, go to the Database node and right-click and pick Attach...\
Find your *.mdf file in question and select it\


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Original Source: https://www.mindstick.com/forum/23306/restore-sql-database-from-disc-copy-backup

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