Link a database to a working folder

You can link a database to a working folder, a local folder containing SQL script files that represent the structure and content of your database. This setup allows you to script changes directly into the folder. You can then manage those files using your version control system as you would with any other source-controlled files.

Note

When a database is linked to a working folder, the Changes History document is unavailable.

To link a database to a working folder in dbForge Studio:

1. In Database Explorer, right-click the database you want to link and select Source Control > Link Database to Source Control.

Alternatively, on the top menu, select Database > Link Database to Source Control.

2. In the Link Database to Source Control dialog, in the Source control repository field, click Create New Repository.

Note

By default, dbForge Studio automatically selects the repository that was previously linked.

3. In the Source Control Repository Properties dialog, enter the working folder settings:

  • Set Source Control system to Working Folder.
  • Enter the full path to the Database folder that stores the SQL scripts.
  • Enter a Repository name.

4. Optional: To verify the repository settings, click Test.

5. To save the settings and close the dialog, click OK.

Link a database to a working folder

6. Choose a database development model:

  • Shared – Developers collaborate on a single shared database.
  • Dedicated – Each developer works on a local copy of the database.

7. To connect the database to the repository, click Link.

The Refresh window opens and displays the progress of the refresh operation.

After the database is linked, it appears in Database Explorer with the source control icon:

Linked database in Database Explorer

Set up version control after linking

After linking the database, your next step depends on whether the repository is new or already in use by your team:

  • If this is the first time the database is linked:

In the Local changes section of the Source Control Manager, select the objects you want to add to version control, then click Commit.

For instructions, see Commit changes.

  • If the database is already under source control:

In the Remote changes section, select the objects you want to retrieve, then click Get Latest.

Note

The Get Latest option is available only in the dedicated development model.

For instructions, see Get the latest version.