LDF File Documentation

Overview

Feature Value
File Extension .ldf
Full Form Log Data File
Primary Usage SQL Server Transaction Log
MIME Type application/octet-stream
File Category Database File
Developer Microsoft
Function Stores a log of all database transactions
Recovery Options Full, Bulk-Logged, Simple
Contains Transaction Log Records
Compatibility SQL Server (All versions)
Encryption Supported (Transparent Data Encryption)
Max Size Configurable (up to 2 TB per log file)
Shrinkable Yes (Under certain conditions)
Growth Management Automatic or Manual
Backup Strategies Full, Differential, Transaction Log
Recovery Model Dependent Yes
Role in Replication Crucial for Transactional Replication
Impact on Performance Depends on Transaction Volume and Recovery Model
Linked with .mdf (Primary Data File)
Location Configurable by the administrator
Management Tools SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), Transact-SQL, PowerShell
Requires Maintenance Yes (Periodic Backup and Truncation)