SQL Server 2000 database after restore to 2005 is empty

Question

I have very old backup file ( .bak ) of SQL Server 2000. After restoring it to SQL Server 2005, the database looks empty (please see screenshot).

What is the probable cause?

screenshot

Answer 1

Answer for other people looking for solution: From previous screenshot 6.5 means database compatibility version 65 (SQL Server version 6.5. All versions described here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Microsoft_SQL_Server

So I had to open SQL Enterprise manager 8.0 (which supports such an old database, version 65) and change compatibility level of the database to 80 (highest available). Than make a backup of DB and restore it in SQL Server 2000-2008 as lvl 80 is supported by them. Please see screenshot below: Compatibility lvl

And you can repeat the steps so for example DB restored in SQL Server 2008 can be changed (compatibility lvl) to a 100. Back it up again and restore in SQL 2017 or higher, you can easily find compatibility level tables: MICROSOFT WEBSITE COMPATIBILITY LEVEL