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Written By Shivam Rathore
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Updated on August 12th, 2025
User Query: “When I start my SQL Server, I keep getting Error 9003, saying the log scan is terminated due to a corrupted log file. I don’t know what it is or how to fix it without losing my data. Can you help me to resolve this?”
Summary: Microsoft SQL Server Error 9003 shows up when the transaction log file gets corrupted or there is a mismatch in the Log Sequence Number (LSN). When this happens, the database refuses to open, leaving DBAs and developers in a difficult situation. If the issue is not fixed quickly, it can lead to serious data corruption. In this blog, we will discuss the main reason behind it and provide a solution using manual methods as well as a professional SQL Log Recovery Tool. Download Now Purchase Now
Fixing this error on time keeps your database healthy, and your work is not interrupted. It also protects valuable data from corruption or permanent loss. Here are more reasons:
There are distinct ways to fix Server Error 9003. First, check the database status and run a consistency check to find any damage. If you have a recent backup, restoring it is the safest choice. If not, you can try emergency repair commands or use a professional SQL Recovery Tool.
You can resolve SQL Server Error 9003 manually by running SQL commands to check and repair the database. This method works well if the damage is minor and you have basic SQL knowledge. Let’s explore manual processes:
Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) and run the command to check your database status. Identifying the state is the first step to repair SQL error 9003 effectively. Let’s see the steps:
| SELECT name, state_desc FROM sys.databases; |
Running this command helps find issues behind Microsoft SQL Server Error 9003, so you can decide the best way to fix the corruption. Here are the steps to follow:
| DBCC CHECKDB (‘YourDatabaseName’) WITH NO_INFOMSGS, ALL_ERRORMSGS; |
| RESTORE DATABASE YourDatabaseName FROM DISK = ‘C:\Backup\YourDatabaseName.bak’ WITH REPLACE; |
| DBCC CHECKDB (‘YourDatabaseName’); |
Note: Also, you can check out a complete step-by-step process to restore MDF files.
If no backup is available, you can try emergency repair, but it may result in data loss. Follow the steps below:
| ALTER DATABASE YourDatabaseName SET EMERGENCY; |
| DBCC CHECKDB (‘YourDatabaseName’, REPAIR_ALLOW_DATA_LOSS); |
| ALTER DATABASE YourDatabaseName SET ONLINE; |
Sometimes, Microsoft SQL Server Error 9003 is due to a corrupt log file (.ldf). You can rebuild it:
| USE master; GO EXEC sp_detach_db ‘YourDatabaseName’; |
| CREATE DATABASE YourDatabaseName ON (FILENAME = ‘C:\Data\YourDatabaseName.mdf’) FOR ATTACH_REBUILD_LOG; |
| DBCC CHECKDB (‘YourDatabaseName’); |
If manual methods do not work or you want to avoid the risk of data loss, using a professional SQL Log Recovery Tool is the best choice. This tool is designed to fix corrupt database files safely and quickly without harming your data. It can repair your log file (LDF), recover all database objects, and restore your database to a healthy state. It has an easy-to-use interface, and no technical skills are required to use this.
Now, the procedure can be followed to resolve error 9003 in SQL Server:
To conclude, Microsoft SQL Server Error 9003 can stop your database from working properly, but it can be fixed. Start by checking your database and running repair commands. If you have a backup, restoring it is the safest way to recover your data. Manual repairs may work, but can cause data loss if not done carefully. Using a professional tool, fix the error easily and safely. It helps to keep your data safe and your system running well. That’s why users also prefer to use an automated tool in place of manual steps.
Ans. Error code 9003 occurs when the transaction log file (LDF) is corrupted or when there is a mismatch in the Log Sequence Number (LSN). This prevents SQL Server from starting the database because it cannot properly read or recover the log file.
Ans. The best way is to use a professional SQL Log Recovery Tool that safely repairs corrupted log files and recovers your database quickly without data loss. Manual methods exist but can be risky and require technical skills.
About The Author:
Meet Shivam, an experienced SEO executive and content strategist. He combines creativity with strategy to craft engaging content that connects with audiences and supports brand goals. With strong expertise in digital marketing and content planning, Shivam helps businesses thrive online.
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