Create SQL Server 2008 Backup from 2008 R2

Question

I've created a Backup of a Database on a server with SQL Server 2008 R2.

I wish to restore this onto a server that is running SQL Server 2008.

I've received the error:

"The database was backed up on a server running version 10.50.4000. That version is incompatible with this server, which is running version 10.00.5500."

Is it possible to produce a version 10.00.5500 compatible backup from 10.50.4000.

If not what other options do I have, or other ways to create the database.

I have tried to use the Copy Database task, but also received errors.

Answer 1

This is not possible. At least, you won't be able to use the backup to restore on an older version.

Nenad Zivkovic provided a good link and there are several ways out of this situation listed:

• Upgrade the older version of SQL Server to be at the same level as the newer SQL Server.
• Script out the objects from the newer database and then usp a bcp process to extract the data from the newer database and import it into the older database.
• Use the SQL Server Import and Export Wizard to build an SSIS package to move the data (it will move the data only).
• Build a custom SSIS package to do the data move.
• Use replication to move the data from the newer database to the older one.
• Use some other form of scripting, such as with PowerShell, to keep the databases in sync.

(Source: http://www.mssqltips.com/sqlservertip/2675/why-cant-i-restore-a-database-to-an-older-version-of-sql-server/ )