Is it possible to restore Sql Server 2008 backup in sql server 2005

Question

Is it possible to restore a backup of a SQL Server 2008 database onto an instance of SQL Server 2005?

I need to work on an sample application for which database backup is in sql server 2008. But I'll not be able to install 2008. So is it possible to restore that back up in 2005?

Answer 1

No, not directly. SQL Server 2008 database backups are not backward compatible with SQL Server 2005. However, with SQL Server 2008 Management Studio, you can script data and schemas in SQL Server 2005 mode. This article describes the process in detail.

Answer 2

No. It is not possible to restore a database from a backup of a newer version.

If you are dead set on it, I think your best option is to selet the database in the Object Explorer in SQL 2008, right-click, select Tasks->Generate Scripts.In the options dialog emable about everything, including Script Data.

And make sure you select "Script for SQL 2005".

Source

Answer 3

does sql server 2008 create 2008 version backups even if you are using the 2008 management studio to connect and backup an sql server 2005 database?

Answer 4

You can use DBSave, it's a great freeware tool to backup and restore ms sql server on different machines. It's verry simple to setup and to use.

Answer 5

No you can't, but tools like red gate's SQL Compare/Data Compare can read backup files directly & transfer the info across to a live database, dealing with any syntax or settings that aren't compatible on SS2005