Why Is My SQL Server 2008 Identity Insert Failing Even After Enabling It?

SQL Server 2008 Identity Insert Troubleshooting: A Complete Guide

Inserting data into tables with identity columns in SQL Server 2008 can sometimes lead to errors related to identity insert being disabled. This guide explains the problem and provides solutions.

Understanding the "IDENTITY_INSERT is OFF" Error

The IDENTITY_INSERT setting determines whether you can manually assign values to identity columns. When it's OFF (the default), the database automatically generates these values. Trying to insert a specific value while IDENTITY_INSERT is OFF results in an error.

Enabling Identity Insert: The Correct Method

To enable identity insert in SQL Server 2008, use this command, replacing Database.dbo.Baskets with your database and table names:

SET IDENTITY_INSERT Database.dbo.Baskets ON

Why the Query Might Still Fail

Even after running the above command, you might encounter errors. This is because the change might not apply to the current transaction. To ensure it takes effect, wrap your insert statement within a transaction block:

BEGIN TRANSACTION;

SET IDENTITY_INSERT Database.dbo.Baskets ON;

-- Your INSERT statement here

COMMIT TRANSACTION;

Using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

Alternatively, you can enable identity insert through SSMS. Right-click your table, choose "Design," go to the "Identity Specification" tab, and check "Allow Identity Inserts."

Summary

Successfully inserting data into identity columns requires enabling IDENTITY_INSERT within a transaction. Using the correct syntax and understanding the transactional context is key to resolving this common SQL Server 2008 issue.

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