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How do I find the database in my FTP directory?

Hi,

I've just taken over a web project from another web developer who's method of organizing the server had no rhyme or reason. Everything's a mess, with groups of files in the last places you'd expect (I'm sure many of you have experience with this).

That said, how could I find the original database? I have a copy of the source code, I'm running Visual Studio 2010, and have FTP access as well. Would I run a search from a particular program?

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Dan

Dave Baldwin

The source code, maybe web.config, will have the connection string that should tell you where the database is. Database are Not usually under the web root with the HTML files.

Maverick_Cool

also Check in code for dataSource, if the code connects via a 'system data source' or 'user data source'.
In that case you should go to iis or system control panel to get details of connection string.
If it is directly in connection string, then use that url to locate your database.

captainred

ASKER

Is there a way to search for files in the FTP with specific extensions, specifically MDF in this case?

Maverick_Cool

use a ftp client like FileZilla, it has search functionality with recursive option

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Dave Baldwin

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captainred

ASKER

I found the web.config file. You're right - it's loaded with references to the database. Many thanks!

Dave Baldwin

You're welcome, thanks for the points.