What does JET Error -1216 Mean?
The code is JET_errAttachedDatabaseMismatch. Microsoft explains that it typically follows a simultaneous crash of all databases in a storage group when one database is no longer available. A destroyed disk is one example.
Exchange then finds that a database does not match the log files and the other databases that share them.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Code | -1216 |
| Name | JET_errAttachedDatabaseMismatch |
| Related code | -551 JET_errConsistentTimeMismatch |
| Where it appears | Event log entries and Eseutil output |
What Causes Error -1216?
- A lost database. One database in the group is gone after a crash.
- Raw file restores. Microsoft links the related -551 error to restoring raw copies of one database while others sit in Dirty Shutdown.
- A mixed set of files. Databases and logs from different points in time.
Storage groups are an older Exchange design where several databases share one log stream. Check your own version before you compare it with this table.
How do You Check the Databases?
- Dismount the databases in the group.
- Check the header of every database with Eseutil.
- Note the State and the Log Required fields.
- Compare the values with the log files on disk.
eseutil /mh "D:\Mailbox\DB01\DB01.edb"A database in Dirty Shutdown is still attached to its logs and needs them before it can start. Our guide to repair without log files shows what to do if the logs are gone.
How do You Fix Error -1216?
Method #1: Restore From Backup (Free With Your Backup)
Who it suits. Admins who have an Exchange aware backup. Extra application. None.
Restore every database in the group from the same backup set, together with the logs. Mixed restore points cause this error again. Do not copy single raw files into a group that holds other databases in Dirty Shutdown.
Method #2: Recover the EDB File (Paid After Demo)
Who it suits. Admins with no usable backup. Extra application. Exchange Recovery Tool.
The Exchange Recovery Tool opens an offline EDB file without the group, the logs or a live server. It exports mailboxes to PST or to a live server. Use a copy of the file for the demo.
Heads Up. Copy every database and log file before you try any repair. A wrong command order can make the mismatch worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Error -1216 Mean?
It is JET_errAttachedDatabaseMismatch. A database does not match its log files or the other databases in its group.
What Causes It?
Microsoft states that it follows a simultaneous crash of all databases in a group when one database is gone, for example after a destroyed disk.
How does It Relate to Error -551?
Microsoft states that -551 is closely related. It follows a restore of raw copies of one database while others sit in Dirty Shutdown.
How do You Check the Database State?
Dismount the database and use eseutil /mh. Read the State and Log Required fields.
Can You Fix It With Eseutil /p?
Repair removes data and does not solve a mismatch with logs. Restore from backup when you have one.
Does It Affect Exchange 2016 and 2019?
Microsoft documents it for storage groups in older versions. Check your version before you follow older steps.
What if You have No Backup?
Recover the EDB file with recovery software. It reads the file with no logs and no server.
Author's Verdict
Treat error -1216 as a mismatch between files, and fix it by restoring a matching set.
Use recovery software only when no matching backup exists.
Key Takeaways
- -1216 means a database and log mismatch.
- Raw restores in a group cause the related -551.
- Restore all databases from one backup set.
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