This article describes how to shrink a database in SQL Server by using Object Explorer in SQL Server Management Studio or Transact-SQL. Shrinking data files recovers space by moving pages of data from the end of the file to unoccupied space closer to the front of the file.

Jan 2, 2025 · In this article we walk through an example of how SQL Server database files grow and then the steps to take to shrink a database file.

Jan 13, 2009 · https://solutioncenter.apexsql.com/sql-server-database-shrink-how-and-when-to-schedule-and-perform-shrinking-of-database-files/ All you need to do is install ApexSQL Backup, click "Shrink database" button in the main ribbon, select database in the window that will pop-up, and click "Finish".

Apr 22, 2025 · Syntax for Azure Synapse Analytics: [ , target_percent ] The database name or ID to be shrunk. 0 specifies that the current database is used. The percentage of free space that you want left in the database file after the shrink operation completes.

Nov 22, 2024 · In this article, I will walk you through multiple ways to shrink a database in SQL server. Let us dive deep into both approaches individually. The primary approach is to use the DBCC SHRINKDATABASE Command to shrink the SQL server database. Syntax. Example. In this example, we will shrink the Test_Schema database by 10 percent.

Apr 28, 2016 · In this post, I’ll focus on a method that is both online, and works in all editions of SQL Server. Before you get to step 1, convince yourself that you really have to shrink your database. I’ll let Brent Ozar (blog | twitter) tell you to Stop …

Jan 4, 2016 · How to shrink a SQL Server database with SQL Server Management Studio. Start SSMS and connect to the SQL Server database engine; In the Object Explorer panel locate the database in question, and use right mouse click to bring up the context menu; Navigate to Tasks / Shrink / Database

Dec 4, 2024 · Learn how to shrink databases safely in SQL Server to reclaim space, minimize risks, and maintain performance with best practices and tips.

Oct 19, 2016 · In this article, I’ll explain the methods to shrink database file (.mdf). Just like shrinking transaction log, there are multiple ways to shrink the data file. But make sure you are not to shrink the data file frequently or have the shrink operation in a the maintenance plan. In fact, try to avoid shrinking the database data file.

Aug 14, 2024 · Best practices recommend disabling it, so ensure it is turned off. Using SSMS, expand Databases. Right-click on the database name and select Properties. Set the Auto Shrink property on the Options page to False, and click OK. Note: SQL Server auto shrink feature is disabled by default on SQL Server instance databa ses.