How to Resolve SQL Database Stuck in Recovery Mode?

When an SQL database stuck in recovery mode, it can stop SQL Server from working properly. Finding the actual cause makes it easier and faster to fix. There are several troubleshooting methods you can try. And if those don’t work, you can use professional tools like SQL Database Recovery to repair and recover your database. In this article, we will learn how to fix a database that is stuck in the Recovery Pending state. Download Now Purchase Now

But before we start fixing it, let’s first understand why a database can enter the recovery pending state.

What Makes a Database Stuck in Recovery Mode?

1. Missing or corrupted transaction log (.ldf) or data file (.mdf)
   If the log file is deleted, moved, inaccessible, or corrupted, SQL Server can’t read the records. It needs to roll forward/rollback transactions, so it refuses to complete recovery.
2. An interrupted or incomplete RESTORE sequence (NORECOVERY left on)
   If someone restored full/differential backups using WITH NORECOVERY but never ran the final RESTORE. WITH RECOVERY, the database will remain in a non-recovered state waiting for the rest of the log chain.
3. Disk full/insufficient I/O or inaccessible storage
   If the volume that holds the log or data file is full, offline, or slow/unavailable. SQL Server cannot write/read the log and so can’t proceed with recovery.
4. Very large transaction log or long-running transactions
   If there is a huge log or a very long-running transaction that needs to be rolled back. Recovery can take a very long time, and the SQL database stuck in recovery mode.”
5. Too many Virtual Log Files (VLFs) in the log
   When the log file has been auto-grown many times with small increments, it can create thousands of VLFs. A very high VLF count can greatly slow down recovery, and in extreme cases, make the SQL database stuck in restoring.
6. File locks/antivirus / backup software interference
   If another process locks the files, SQL Server cannot open the files to start recovery. The SQL error log will show a “file is in use” or similar error.
7. Hardware/storage corruption or OS issues
   Disk/controller faults, file system corruption, or abrupt power failures can corrupt the log or data files.
8. SQL Server bugs / availability-group replication mismatches
   Rarely, engine bugs, misconfiguration in Always On AGs, mirroring, or replication issues can prevent recovery on a replica.

Read More: Fix SQL Server Recovery Pending

Simple Ways to Resolve SQL Database in Recovery

1 – Check the Error Logs

The SQL Server error logs can give clues about why the database is stuck. Look for messages about missing files, corrupt logs, or other recovery issues. These messages can be technical, but they often point directly to the problem.

2 – Give Recovery Some Time

Recovery doesn’t happen instantly. Large databases with many transactions can take a long time to recover. Avoid restarting SQL Server immediately; let it finish the process.

3 – Monitor Recovery Progress

You can see what SQL Server is doing during recovery by running this query in SSMS (SQL Server Management Studio):

SELECT session_id, command, blocking_session_id, wait_type, wait_time, wait_resource FROM sys.dm_exec_requests WHERE command = ‘DB STARTUP’;

This shows the sessions currently involved in database startup and recovery.

4 – Check the Database State

After giving some time for recovery, check if the SQL database stuck in recovery mode is still stuck. Run this query in SSMS (replace YourDatabaseName with your database name):

SELECT name, state_desc FROM sys.databases WHERE name = ‘YourDatabaseName’;

• RECOVERY_PENDING or RECOVERY_IN_PROGRESS means it is still recovering.
• If it’s still stuck for hours, other steps may be needed.

5 – Restart SQL Server Service

If recovery seems frozen for a long time, restarting the SQL Server service can help.
Warning: This may disrupt other databases or processes, so use this as a last resort.

6 – Use SQL Repair Commands

You can repair the database using the DBCC CHECKDB command with repair options.
Be careful: incorrect options can cause data loss. Always have a recent backup before attempting this.

7 – Restore from Backup

The safest way to recover your data is to restore from a recent backup. Regular backups are crucial for situations like this. You can use tools like SQL Database Recovery Software to restore damaged databases safely. This tool is also useful in restoring SQL Server Restore Failed Due to Database In Use.

Steps to Use The Advanced Software Tool

1. Firstly, run the SQL Database Recovery Software on your system.
2. Then, click Open and add the MDF file you want to recover.
3. After that, choose the appropriate recovery mode and click OK.
4. Afterwards, preview the data displayed and press Save to start the export.
5. Furthermore, choose whether to save it as a new database or as SQL scripts.
6. Finally, specify the location to save the output, apply filters, and click OK.

8 – Ask for Help

If nothing works, contact Microsoft Support or your database administrator. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose complex recovery issues and restore your database safely.

Explore More: Restore Database In SQL Server

Conclusion

To conclude, a SQL database stuck in recovery mode can disrupt your work, but understanding the causes makes it easier to fix. Most issues happen due to missing or corrupted files, large logs, or incomplete restores. You can try simple solutions like checking error logs, monitoring recovery progress, restarting SQL Server, using repair commands, or restoring from a backup.

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