Expert Tips- Microsoft Access Has Detected Corruption in This File (29072)

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MS Access is a commonly used DBMS, known for its user-friendly interface. Like any other software, it is not immune to errors & problems. One such error message that users often encounter is- “Microsoft Access has detected corruption in this file.“

Microsoft Access has detected corruption in this file

In this blog, I will explore all about Access database error code 29072, its common causes, and other crucial info including its troubleshooting steps to resolve it.

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Quick Fixes:

  1. Use the Compact and Repair Database Tool
  2. Restore a Backup File
  3. Converting File to Access 2007 Format
  4. Try Manual Export
  5. Perform System Restore
  6. Edit Windows Registry
  7. Using Advanced Solution: Access Repair Software

What Does Microsoft Office Access Has Detected Corruption in This File Mean?

While working with the Access database, you may face the below error message:

“Microsoft Access has detected corruption in this file. To try to repair the corruption, first make a backup copy of the file. Then, on the Tools menu, point to Database Utilities and click Compact and Repair Database. If you are currently trying to repair this corruption then you will need to recreate this file or restore it from a previous backup.”

When this error arises, it specifies that the MS Access database file you’re attempting to open is corrupted or damaged. This can happen for numerous reasons, like:

  1. Unexpected System Shutdowns: When the system shuts off unexpectedly due to a power outage.
  2. Malware & Viruses– Malicious viruses can infiltrate your Access database & corrupt your data, leading to 29072
  3. Software Bugs– MS Access can have occasional bugs. Such bugs can result in unforeseen data problems, and the corruption error might be a consequence.
  4. Hardware Failures– Hard disk failures, power surges, or other hardware problems can lead to data corruption and errors.

After knowing the reasons, let’s address it by applying the below troubleshooting methods.

How to Solve Microsoft Access Has Detected Corruption In This File Error (29072)?

Fix 1- Use the Compact and Repair Database Tool

Since the error indicates severe database corruption, it is worth trying Access’s inbuilt tool i.e. Compact and Repair to deal with the issue. Follow these steps to learn how to run this utility:

  • Open the MS Access application
  • Go to File tab and click an Info button
  • Choose a “Compact & Repair.”

Repair Corrupt Access Database

  • Search for the corrupt file or type the file name you want to repair.

Also Read: Fix Microsoft Access Has Detected That This Database Is in An Inconsistent State Error

Fix 2- Restore a Backup File

Creating a backup of the file is a primary option for every database user. So, if you’ve an extra copy of your corrupted database file (backup), consider restoring that file. Backups are helpful in recovering from corruption problems.

Fix 3- Solve MS Access Database Error Code 29072 by Converting File to Access 2007 Format

Another option that you can try to deal with this error is to convert the Access file to 2007 format by following the below steps:

  • If you’re attempting to launch the .MDB file of the 2003 version, first launch it with the MS Access 2007 version.
  • Next, convert a file to 2007 format.
  • After this, convert it again to MS Access 2003 file format.

Fix 4- Try Manual Export

Open your corrupted Access database and manually export all elements of MS Access like tables, forms, queries, reports, etc. to any newly formed database.

To manually export the MS Access elements and fix Microsoft Office Access has detected corruption in this file error, follow these steps:

  • First of all, open the MS Access application.
  • Now go to the External Data tab click on a More option from an Export group, and click Access Database.

MS Access External Data

  • Select the final location in the File name box and click OK.
  • After that Export dialogbox will appear. Assign the new name for the element you are transferring and tap to the OK.

Exporting Access Database To XML Or CSV 3

Fix 5- Perform System Restore

Performing System Restore is another working way that can assist you in getting rid of the 29072 error. It will eventually restore a corrupt file to a previous date when a last restore point is created.

Follow the below steps to do this:

  • Navigate to Start >> type ‘Create a restore point’ in a search bar.
  • Next, you will see System Restore there, click on that.

System Restore

  • Tap Next to confirm with a System Restore >> choose the restore point.
  • After this, follow on-screen instructions >> click Finish.
  • Finally, the corrupted MS Access file will be restored to the earlier version.

Fix 6- Edit Windows Registry (recommended for advanced users only)

This particular solution is not for novice users because the change did meanwhile this is just irreversible. Follow the below-mentioned steps to manually make Windows registry entries:

  • Tap to the start button and type regedit in the search box.

  • The registry editor option will appear on the screen. After that. Select MS Access key.
  • Now open File menu and choose the Export option.
  • Make a selection for the destination folder from the Save in.
  • Assign a name for the backup file in the File Name box and the name of the preferred branch i++n Export range box.

Also Read: Access Execution of This Application Has Stopped Due to A Run-Time Error

Fix 7- Resolve Microsoft Access Has Detected Corruption in This File Error Using Advanced Solution

What if the above manuals fail to work for you? Don’t worry, all you need to do is go for Access Repair Software to fix severe database corruption. This program is able to repair Access database .accdb or .mdb files in a few simple clicks. With the help of this tool, one can fix any type of database corruption, errors, inaccessibility, etc.

* By clicking the Download button above and installing Stellar Repair for Access (14.8 MB), I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the End User License Agreement and Privacy Policy of this site.

It contains an effective scanning method with a simple user interface. These features make this tool more popular to fix corruption related to the MS Access database.

Steps To Use MS Access Repair and Recovery Tool

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does My Access Database Keep Getting Corrupted?

The Hardware issues with the networking equipment & hard drives are the major reasons that affect the database integrity.

Can Data Corruption Be Prevented Entirely?

Yes, data corruption can be prevented entirely by following safe database practices & maintaining regular backups.

Is There Any Utility to Repair Database Corruption?

Yes, Microsoft Access offers a built-in utility known as “Compact and Repair” that can often repair database corruption issues.

Bottom Line

The Microsoft Access error 29072 can be a major obstruction. By following the troubleshooting tricks mentioned in this blog, you can eventually fix this error and minimize the risk of data loss.

If none of the above fixes are able to solve it, then immediately seek professional assistance.

That’s all…

References:

  1. https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/msoffice/forum/all/i-got-a-message-microsoft-office-access-has/eb47502b-aed8-4ab6-9ebe-4704df93738a
  2. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/compact-and-repair-a-database-6ee60f16-aed0-40ac-bf22-85fa9f4005b2

tip Still having issues? Fix them with this Access repair tool:

This software repairs & restores all ACCDB/MDB objects including tables, reports, queries, records, forms, and indexes along with modules, macros, and other stuffs effectively.

  1. Download Stellar Repair for Access rated Great on Cnet (download starts on this page).
  2. Click Browse and Search option to locate corrupt Access database.
  3. Click Repair button to repair & preview the database objects.

Pearson Willey is a website content writer and long-form content planner. Besides this, he is also an avid reader. Thus he knows very well how to write an engaging content for readers. Writing is like a growing edge for him. He loves exploring his knowledge on MS Access & sharing tech blogs.