My current webhost only provides ms sql functionality by allowing the creation of ms sql files from a control panel. It does also allow the import of previously created files, BUT only *.mdb and *.bak files and NOT *.mdf files.

This presents me with a problem as I have relied upon Visual Web Developer Express to create login roles and membership rights for me in a file named aspnetdb.mdf, which unfortunately I cannot port to the webhost.

I have two questions:
Does any one know of a way to convert my aspnetdb.mdf file into backup format, so that I can use my webhosts import process?

Can anyone recommend a webhost that does allow straight forward import of *.mdf files?

Thanks

Hi there,

What version of SQL Server is your host using?

If they're using version 2005, you can create a backup of your database using SQL Server Management Studio.

Alternatively you can use Integration Services to copy your data into your new database.

If they're using 2000, you can use Integration Services as well. Or you can run the aspnet_regsql tool against the remote database to create the required structure.

Imar
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Imar Spaanjaars
Everyone is unique, except for me.
Author of ASP.NET 2.0 Instant Results and Beginning Dreamweaver MX / MX 2004
Want to be my colleague? Then check out this post.

Dear Imar,

My webhost is supporting SQL Server 2000.

Since my last post, I have spotted a link to your really helpful paper on using Microsoft Access Providers instead. I think that might be my best option in the long run.

As an beginner to ASP.net, I am finding your step by step methodolgy very easy to follow. Thanks.

I did have a problem right at the end: When clicking on the security tab in the WSAT I got an exceptions error. I'll step through the process once more and let you know if I am still having problems.

Alternatively have you posted anything on how to use aspnet_regsql remotely?

Thanks for your help,

Hi Insel.

I am glad you found the article about Access providers useful. In case others are interested, here's a link to the article: http://imar.spaanjaars.com/QuickDocId.aspx?quickdoc=404

It explains how to compile and use the Microsoft Access Providers that have been released by Microsoft as a shared source initiative and that allow you to use all the cool new ASP.NET 2 services with an Access database instead of SQL server.

I haven't posted anything about running aspnet_regsql remotely, but Scott Guthrie has in his article "Configuring ASP.NET 2.0 Application Services to use SQL Server 2000 or SQL Server 2005" located here: http://weblogs.asp.net/scottgu/archi...25/423703.aspx

(You may have seen it already because I linked to it from my article.)

Cheers,

Imar
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Imar Spaanjaars
Everyone is unique, except for me.
Author of ASP.NET 2.0 Instant Results and Beginning Dreamweaver MX / MX 2004
Want to be my colleague? Then check out this post.