.mdf file extension

.mdf

1. The recommended file extension for a primary data file for a SQL Server database.

2. Media Descriptor File. CD Image file created using Alcohol 120% (or Alcohol 52%), that holds the image of a CD.

Alcohol 120% can be used to copy copy-protected CDs/DVDs and one common technique in copy-protection is to use intentionally defective sectors on the CD/DVD, and the Alcohol 120% .mdf/.mds format allows defective sectors to be stored, whereas other popular formats such as .iso, .bin and .nrg do not.

cf .mds

For more information see:

www.alcohol-soft.com - Home page for Alcohol software.
www.magiciso.com/tutorials/miso-magicdisc-overview.htm - MagicDisk is a freeware application that supports .mdf (and .mds) files, allowing these to be opened. It does not allow the .mdf files to be edited, but this can be achieved using their paid MagicISO product.

Can you add to this? Do you know of any applications not already listed which will work with .mdf files, view .mdf files or open .mdf files? Are you able to contribute any additional reference information or file format information about .mdf files or have you spotted any errors or omissions? If so please let us know by emailing us at feedback@cryer.co.uk - Thank you.