What does JET Error -501 Mean?
The code is JET_errLogFileCorrupt. Microsoft explains that it means physical damage to a transaction log file, similar in cause and effect to a -1018 error in a database file. You cannot repair or recover a log file after this error occurs.
Microsoft notes that error -1022 in a log file means header corruption, while -501 means other areas of the log are damaged.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Code | -501 |
| Name | JET_errLogFileCorrupt |
| Affected file | Transaction log, like E00.log |
| Related codes | -1022 log header, -515 log sequence |
Where does the Error Appear?
It appears during soft recovery or when you mount a database in Dirty Shutdown. Eseutil prints a message that the log is damaged and unusable, and the operation ends with error -501.
Check the database first.
eseutil /mh "D:\Mailbox\DB01\DB01.edb"The Log Required field names the logs the database needs. Test a log with the /ml switch.
eseutil /ml "D:\Mailbox\DB01\E00"A database in Clean Shutdown does not need its logs, as our repair without log files guide explains.
How do You Fix Error -501?
Method #1: Restore From Backup (Free With Your Backup)
Who it suits. Admins who have an Exchange aware backup. Extra application. None.
Restore the database and the logs from the backup. Exchange replays the good logs and you lose only the changes stored in the damaged log.
Method #2: Use Eseutil /p (Free, Data Loss Possible)
Who it suits. Admins with no backup who accept data loss. Extra application. None.
Microsoft states that repair results in some data loss, so copy the EDB and every log first. Move mailboxes to a new database after the repair.
eseutil /p "D:\Mailbox\DB01\DB01.edb"Method #3: Recover the EDB File (Paid After Demo)
Who it suits. Admins with a database that will not mount. Extra application. Exchange Recovery Tool.
The Exchange Recovery Tool reads the EDB file without the logs and exports mailboxes. Try the demo on a copy.
Heads Up. A damaged log points to a disk or power fault. Fix the cause or the error returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Error -501 Mean?
It is JET_errLogFileCorrupt. A transaction log file has physical damage.
Can You Repair a Damaged Log File?
No. Microsoft states that you cannot repair or recover a log file after this error.
How do You Test a Log File?
Use eseutil /ml with the log path. It reports if the log is damaged.
What is the Difference From Error -1022?
Microsoft states that -1022 in a log means header corruption, and -501 means other areas of the log are damaged.
Do You Need the Logs to Mount a Database?
Only in Dirty Shutdown. A Clean Shutdown database has detached from its logs.
Does Eseutil /p Fix It?
It forces the database to a consistent state without the log, and it removes data it cannot repair.
How do You Avoid It?
Use power protection, check the disk and schedule Exchange aware backups.
Author's Verdict
A damaged log cannot be fixed, so the choice is a backup or a database level recovery.
Check the shutdown state first, because a Clean Shutdown database does not need the log.
Key Takeaways
- -501 means a damaged transaction log.
- Microsoft states that you cannot repair such a log.
- Copy files before any repair step.
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