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Resolving SQL Server Error 9002: Log File Full

Troubleshoot full transaction log error 9002 – SQL Server

Encountering SQL Server Error 9002, which indicates a full transaction log, can disrupt your operations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Identify Active Transactions:

Execute the following query to check for any active transactions:

SELECT * FROM sys.databases WHERE name = 'your_database_name'
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Focus on the column log_reuse_wait_desc to determine if there are any active transactions preventing log reuse.

Additionally, run:

DBCC SQLPERF (Logspace)
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This will provide insights into the current log space usage.

Check Log File Growth Settings:

Verify if the log file growth is restricted:

SELECT name, log_reuse_wait_desc FROM sys.databases
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If restricted, increase the size of the log file growth to allow more space for transactions.

Verify Log Backups:

    Ensure that transaction log backups are running regularly. If not, initiate a manual transaction log backup: 

    BACKUP LOG your_database_name TO DISK = 'path_to_backup_location\log_backup.trn'
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    Perform a Shrink Operation:

    Shrinking the log file can release unused space:

    DBCC SHRINKFILE (your_log_file_name, target_size_in_MB)
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    Note: This should be done with caution and typically only when absolutely necessary.

    Check Disk Space Availability:

      • Ensure there is adequate disk space where the log file is stored. If the disk is full, you need to either clear up space or proceed with the next step.

      Add an Overflow File:

      If disk space is not available, add an overflow log file to another disk with sufficient space:

      ALTER DATABASE your_database_name ADD LOG FILE (NAME = your_new_log_file_name, FILENAME = 'new_disk_path\your_new_log_file.ldf')
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      File Movement After Approval:

        • With the necessary approvals, consider moving the log file to a disk with enough free space. This involves detaching and reattaching the database or using SQL Server Management Studio for file movement.

        Re-verify Log Backups:

          • Double-check that the log backups are running correctly. If needed, run another manual transaction log backup as shown in privious Step.

          Last Resort: Truncate Log File (Not Recommended for Production)

          If all else fails, as a last resort, you can truncate the log file. However, this is not recommended for production environments due to the risk of data loss:

          BACKUP LOG your_database_name WITH TRUNCATE_ONLY
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          Note: Truncating the log file deletes the Virtual Log Files (VLFs) and can cause data loss. It should only be used in emergency situations.

          By following these steps, you can address the SQL Server Error 9002 and ensure the transaction log file is properly managed. Regular monitoring and maintenance are crucial to preventing this issue in the future.