SQL Server How To Solve 'The transaction log for database x is full due to ACTIVE_TRANSACTION'

The error “The transaction log for database x is full due to ACTIVE_TRANSACTION” can occur in SQL Server when the transaction log for a database becomes full and cannot accept any more transactions. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as a long-running transaction that is preventing the log from being truncated, or a database with a low log file size that is unable to accommodate the volume of transactions being performed.

There are a few different approaches you can take to solve this issue. Here are some steps you can try:

1. Identify the active transaction causing the log to fill up: To do this, you can use the sys.dm_tran_active_transactions dynamic management view to find the transaction that is causing the log to fill up. You can then try to identify the cause of the long-running transaction and take steps to resolve it.

2. Increase the size of the transaction log: If the transaction log is too small to accommodate the volume of transactions being performed, you can increase the size of the log file. To do this, you will need to alter the database, setting a new value for the FILEGROWTH property of the log file. You can also set the MAXSIZE property to allow the log file to grow to a larger size.

3. Truncate the transaction log: If you are unable to identify the cause of the long-running transaction or increase the size of the log file, you may need to truncate the log. This will clear the log and allow new transactions to be recorded. However, be aware that this will also cause any uncommitted transactions to be rolled back, so you should only do this as a last resort.

4. Change the recovery model of the database: If you are using the FULL recovery model for your database, you may be able to solve the “The transaction log for database x is full due to ACTIVE_TRANSACTION” error by switching to the SIMPLE recovery model. This will allow the log to be truncated more frequently, which can help prevent the log from filling up. However, be aware that this will also mean that you will not be able to perform point-in-time recovery of your database.

5. Monitor and optimize your transactions: To prevent the “The transaction log for database x is full due to ACTIVE_TRANSACTION” error from occurring in the future, you should monitor your transactions and optimize them to minimize their impact on the transaction log. This can include reducing the size of transactions, optimizing the code being run in the transactions, and committing transactions more frequently.

Overall, solving the “The transaction log for database x is full due to ACTIVE_TRANSACTION” error requires identifying the cause of the problem and taking steps to address it. Whether you need to increase the size of the log file, truncate the log, change the recovery model of the database, or optimize your transactions, there are a number of different approaches you can take to resolve this issue and keep your database running smoothly.

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