Virtual Database (VDB) is a powerful solution that allows you to mount SQL Server backup files and query them like real databases. Virtual Database allows you to gain instant access to data in your backup file saving on time and storage.
Any operation that you can perform on a physical database can be performed on a virtual database. Likewise, applications that rely on getting information from this database can continue using the virtual version. You can also access this virtual database using Microsoft SQL Server tools, such as Management Studio, and other third-party applications.
You can modify the data and objects in the virtual database. However, because the virtual database is based on archived data, your changes will not persist when you detach the virtual database. To preserve your changes, backup the modified virtual database and then create a new virtual database using those backup files.
How do you mount a Virtual Database?
The SQL Safe Virtual Database Wizard guides you through the steps required to mount a Virtual Database.
Access the SQL Safe Virtual Database Wizard from the following paths:
- Go to the task bar, click Mount Virtual Database.
- From any tab, go to the File menu and select Mount Virtual Database.
- Go to the Common Tasks bar of the SQL Safe Today view and click Mount Virtual Database.
- In the Servers tree, select the SQL Server instance or specific database you want to mount as a virtual database. Right click on it and select Mount Virtual Database.
To get started with the SQL Safe Virtual Database Wizard, follow the steps:
- Select the target database where you want to mount your virtual database.
- Select the location of the database.
- Select the backup sets.
- Specify the name and location of your database files.
- Configure notifications.
- Review details.