How do I read/open an .sql file?

I have an old database backup from my oscommerce store stored as an .sql file. I would like to browse through the contents but I unfortunately don't know what to do with an sql file.

In terms of database programs, I own MS Access 2003.

Any help is appreciated.

 

an sql file is simply a text file. this file can be opened in any text editor (say maybe notepad, for instence)

 

thank you for your fast reply,
but i wish to browse its content, not just view text.

 

There is no "content" it is simply a text file as said above.

What are you wanting to "see"?

 

like a database browser or something

 

Use phpmyadmin, then import the .sql file, and browse.

 

everything the .sql file contains are commands.. so you won't be able to browse the tables unless you import it to a database server. What kind of database are we talking about anyway? do you have the database server installed in your computer?

 

Either you will have to install the db server and then use a GUI interface for it to see it or alternatively there are a few bits of software that will do this as a stand alone without the need for the server.

You will need to search for the relevant server/ software depending on if the commands are for mysql/ ms sql/ oracle etc

 

i think oscommerce use mysql. so as dondon say you need phpmyadmin or other gui that support mysql command.
just execute (import) the sql file. then you can browse it

 

hi guys
i had this problem too
what u want is a wordpad or office or any kind of text_file editer
just open .sql files with them and then u can see what is in it!!
and another thins i sholud say:
.sql format files can not open with notepad!!!!

 

I recommend to use Notepad++ just google it, it opens anything

 

SQLite Database Browser

 

You can use notepad++ to open and see what's inside the .sql DB.

Or you can install xampp and import the .sql DB abd modify it as you wish.

/jik