Restore SQL Server 2014 Backup to 2017 – Step by Step
There are various situations where the requirement is to restore some crucial tables to another server. A similar situation occurs when the user has to restore SQL Server 2014 backup to 2017 database. But, extracting selected tables from the .bak file directly is not an option available in SQL Server. Most common ways to restore the database include to restore first and then moving tables to the new reporting Server database. But this method often takes too much time and further causes disruptions. Let’s now take a look at the possible solution that can help users and database administrators in case they have encountered a similar situation.
Solution:
The problem in the above-mentioned situation is that the restore time is very large for a huge database. So, before processing the restore operation manually, make sure you have enough amount of time. Because it may lead to substantial delays in getting those critical database tables.
Finally, there is a new concept called SysTools SQL Backup Recovery Tool, which is fully functional to support SQL .bak files of all SQL Server. The software allows users to restore SQL Server 2014 backup to 2017 Server with all or selective components of the database.
Moreover, it will provide the functionality to restore the selective components of .bak file to an existing database. This will save the user precious time and effort, too.
Challenges to Restore SQL Server 2014 Backup to 2017, 2019, 2022
Users will have to face several challenges in getting their desired results for this particular task. This is because there are easy manual solutions available. Therefore, it is critically significant for users to be aware of the challenges in advance. It helps them prepare in advance to restore SQL Server 2014 backup to 2016, 2019, 2022 & other versions.
- Avoid Complex Manual Commands: Although there are no to-the-point solutions available. Several users try to bypass this limitation by using a set of commands in such a way, that it will help them execute this operation.
- Different Data Compatibility Issues: Now, when we move DB data from a lower to a higher server, there are no or minimal chances of error. However, While restoring the data from a higher to a lower, users have to face compatibility issues.
- Risk of Data Loss: The major challenge that users face is data loss due to incorrect steps. Many times, users end up risking their data & when they get confused about the technicalities of steps, any wrong step can result in complete data loss.
- Lack of Customization: Users often find customization issues in manual techniques. Although the above-mentioned solution is free from such limitations, users cannot customize the results manually on the other hand.
Apart from these, we have plenty of other limitations that stop users to restore SQL 2014 backup to 2017 version and other versions as well.
Steps to Restore SQL Server 2014 Backup to 2017
- Install and launch the software on your Windows machine. Click on Open button to Add .bak file to the software.

- Next, Click on Browse to select the .bak file for restoration.

- After providing the .bak file to the software, it will ask you to select SQL Server version of your .bak file.
The tool also has the feature to Auto-Detect SQL Server file (.bak) version.

- Click on the Ok Button next to proceed with the process.

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Next, the .bak file details will be displayed. Select the backup, i.e. Full Backup, then click on Recover.

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The software will then scan the .bak file, and
after the scan, the preview of recovered data from .bak file will be displayed. Click on a specific table to preview its data.

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Click on the Export button to restore SQL Server 2014 backup to 2027, 2019, 2022, and other versions.

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The export window will appear. Here, one can restore SQL .bak file directly to SQL Server, CSV file or export as .sql script files.

- To restore backup on SQL Server 2017, you need to choose SQL Server database as export option and provide the required authentication details.

- Then, select the database components like Tables, stored procedures, functions, views etc., that you want to restore.

- Lastly, click on Export button. The restore SQL Server 2014 backup to 2017 database process has been done successfully.

Tips to Restore Backup SQL Server 2014 to 2008, 2012, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2022
Here we are going to explain some tips to make the process even smoother. It’s not like these tips are going to completely reverse the challenges. We have received queries from a lot of users asking if we can restore SQL Server 2014 backup to 2019 or other versions. So yes, they can. However, these tips only help users to enhance the restoration experience & minimize the chances of errors.
- Prepare a Strategy: Make a blueprint for the entire operation first. Planning is the first stage where users need to make a robust strategy for obtaining results quickly, along with zero tolerance for any errors.
- Communicate Well: Make sure to inform about the changes to all the users & train them for the same if needed. Any miscommunication in such operations can lead to severe consequences later for the users.
- Prepare for the Complications: When a user restore backup SQL Server 2014 to 2008 R2, there might be complications due to data compatibility issues. Therefore, in such cases, counteractions must be decided in advance.
- Keep Multiple Copies of Backup: Make sure to keep multiple copies of the backup file so that in cases where things might go wrong, users have their data safe for further use from the beginning.
Conclusion
This was just a scenario, in which we explained the alternate option to restore SQL Server 2014 backup to 2017 in a small downtime. In case, when you have to restore the database from a corrupt .bak file, then the tool always helps you and provide the expected result. The reason why I prefer this type of solution is not only because of time saving, but, also it has a simple interface for a great user experience.