SIMS LDF Files Huge

Checking SQL Database compatibility and recovery mode

ESS recommend ensuring any databases relating to SIMS/FMS/Discover/Solus are all set to run in 2012 compatibility mode and simple recovery mode. This to both ensure the databases are functioning as efficiently as possible and also to stop unnecessary data from being logged and swelling the LDF files.

• Open up SSMS (SQL Server Management Studio and log in with the SA credentials
• Expand databases from the left-hand pane and right click on your database, then select properties.
• Click on Options in the select a page section on the left, then ensure the following 2 options are set:
  • Recovery Model: Simple
  • Compatibility Level: SQL Server 2012 (110)
• Once those option are selected, hit OK.

 Shrinking LDF Files through SSMS (SQL Server Management Studio)

Over time your SQL Database LDF files will swell, this is due to transactions happening within SIMS and them being logged to the LDF file. If the LDF files are over 1GB we recommend looking at shrinking them down ASAP, as they can start to cause performance issues with SQL. We also recommend this is done as a regular routine to maintain the performance of SQL.

Before shrinking the LDF files, please ensure steps have been followed above to set the LDF files to Simple Recovery Model.

• Open up SSMS (SQL Server Management Studio and log in with the SA credentials
• Expand databases from the left-hand pane and right click on your database you want to shrink the log file for.
• Select Tasks | Shrink | Files
• Change the File type to Log and then click OK.