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SQL Server Management Studio 2005 can read and modify CE 3.0 and 3.1 database files (with the latest service pack), but SQL Server Management Studio 2008 (or later) is required to read version 3.5 files. Microsoft Visual Studio Express 2008 SP1 can create, modify, and query CE 3.5 SP1 database files. SQL Server Management Studio cannot read CE 4.0 files. Visual Studio 2010 SP1 can handle CE 4.0 database files.

The .sdf ("Sqlce Database File") naming convention is optional, and any extension can be used.

Setting a password for the database file is optional. The database can be compressed and repaired with the option of the compacted/repaired database to be placed into a new database file.

In February 2013, Microsoft announced that SQL Server Compact Edition had been deprecated.cite-ref-18[18]

Although no new versions or updates are planned, Microsoft will continue to support SQL Compact through their standard lifecycle support policy. Extended support for SQL Server Compact 4.0 ended on July 13, 2021.cite-ref-19[19]

• Mobile database

• SQLite

• SQL Server Express § LocalDB

• Access Database Engine (ACE and formerly JET)

• HSQLDB

• Firebird

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