Identify SQL Server Version from BAK File

[jstevens]

Is it possible to identify which SQL Server version a BAK file was generated from?

I have tried various SQL recovery programs but they are unable to read the file. I don't believe the file is corrupt.

I've tried to restore the BAK database file in a Windows 2000 environment (2000 SSMS) and Windows 10 environment (2014 SSMS) without any luck.

Your suggestions are appreciated.

[HansV]

See Determine database version from a bak file or SQL SERVER – Identify Version of SQL Server from Backup File

[jstevens]

Hans,

I tried RESTORE HEADERONLY (2nd URL) and received an error message which I have seen in my previous testing.

Msg 3241, Level 16, State 0, Line 1
The media family on device 'C:\Users\myAccount\Desktop\DBA.bak' is incorrectly formed.
SQL Server cannot process this media family.
Msg 3013, Level 16, State 1, Line 1
RESTORE HEADERONLY is terminating abnormally.

[HansV]

It looks like the backup is corrupt...