In this post, we’re gonna solve the specified cast is not valid. (sqlmanagerui) error that occurs when you trying to restore a database from SQL Server 2012 to an earlier version.
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The specified cast is not valid. (sqlmanagerui)
In SQL Server 2008 R2, I tried to restore a database backup that has been taken from SQL Server 2012, by doing the following:
Unfortunately, after clicking OK. I got the following error
The specified cast is not valid. (sqlmanagerui)
Cause
The database restore operation is only allowed as a move forward which means, you can restore the database from 2005 or 2008 to the 2012 version but it’s not applicable in reverse order.
Restore a Database Backup to an earlier version in SQL Server
The simple solution to achieve that is to use “Script and Data Generator Wizard” to create T-SQL script, then run it at the destination SQL Server with earlier version.
For more details, about the wizard setting, please check Missing data in SQL Generate Scripts
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have learned how to restore a Database Backup to an earlier version in SQL Server.
Applies To
- SQL Server 2012.
- SQL Server 2008.