Microsoft Exchange is an email server that stores and updates user email information. Sometimes, the database files get corrupted. Read here about what causes these problems and how to fix them.
Since email is the most common means of communication in most organizations, it calls for the need of a reliable server. One of the best email servers available today is Microsoft Exchange. As is the case with any software, Microsoft Exchange is susceptible to the corruption of its database files.
What is the meaning of a “Corrupted Exchange Database File?”
Any mailbox information of a user gets stored in an exchange database file. It is not unusual for these files to get corrupted, resulting in the loss of all the data. Such an occurrence can lead to loss of vital data for a company, and this may reduce productivity.
There are numerous ways of fixing this issue when it happens, but first, let us go through some of the causes of exchange database corruption.
What are the causes of database corruption?
- Improper shutdown
When the computer shuts down accidentally, or because of a power failure, it disrupts the functioning of EDB files.
- Hardware failures
Damage on your hard drive caused by overheating or any other malfunction will lead to loss of EDB files because that’s where they are stored.
- Viruses
Viruses can damage almost anything in your computer, including your exchange database files. They damage the hardware or cause boot failures and in so doing corrupt the files.
- Antivirus
Even though anti-virus software serves to protect the computer from harmful viruses, if your antivirus is not compatible with the server, there will be a problem with the files.
- Software issues
A problem with the operating system or Microsoft Exchange program can damage the database files.
- Saving too many files
There is a certain limit to the amount of information Microsoft Exchange can hold. When there is too much storage for it to handle, the files may get corrupted.
3 Ways to Recover Exchange Email Data
- From Backup Files
One good thing about regular back up of data is that you can recover files in case of a loss or damage. When you encounter a problem and can’t seem to open your mailbox, try checking your backup files. Once you get the data you were looking for, open a new EDB file and save the data there. The only problem with this method is that you may not be able to recover any emails that were sent or received during the time your Microsoft Exchange failed. To avoid such limitations, ensure to backup files consistently.
- Download Appropriate Software Tools
There are numerous software tools designed for Exchange data recovery. The most common one is the DataNumen Exchange Recovery tool that can help you a great deal when your server crashes. Such software uses advanced technology to scan Exchange offline folder(.OST) files on your computer and you’ll be able to recover most of the email information on your account.
- Use Eseutil
Eseutil is a built-in tool that comes with Microsoft and can be used to fix corrupted files. It’s available on “C: Program Files/ExchSrvr/Bin” It has a few switches which you can select to prompt it to take action. For example, Eseutil/r-restores data, Eseutil/y- copies database files, Eseutil/p-repairs corrupted files, and so much more.
Overall, a corrupted EDB file should not disturb your peace of mind. Use any of the above methods to fix your problem and you’ll access your lost email information in no time.
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