Why Do My Database Changes Disappear After Closing My C# Application?

Troubleshooting Database Changes Lost After C# Application Closure

This article addresses a common problem: database modifications made within a C# console application disappear after the application closes, even though they appear correct during debugging. Let's investigate the root cause and solution.

The Problem:

Newly added database records vanish when a C# console application terminates, despite appearing correctly during the debugging session.

The Investigation:

This issue often arises when using SQL Server Compact Edition 4. The connection string typically uses "|DataDirectory|," placing the database in the application's BINDEBUG folder during debugging. The application successfully connects and updates this database. However, Visual Studio's Server Explorer might show a different database file located in the project's root folder. This is because the Server Explorer uses a separate connection string.

The Solution:

The core problem lies in the use of "|DataDirectory|." While the application updates the database in the DEBUG folder, Visual Studio overwrites this database with the copy from the project folder on restart. This effectively undoes the changes.

To fix this, adjust the "Copy to Output Directory" property for the database file in your project settings. Set it to either "Copy if Newer" or "Never Copy." This prevents Visual Studio from replacing the database in the DEBUG folder.

Another approach is to create two connections in Server Explorer: one pointing to the project folder's database and another to the DEBUG folder's database. This allows you to observe the changes made by your code without affecting the deployment database.

By implementing these solutions, you can ensure that database changes persist after application closure, and your debugging observations accurately reflect the database's state.

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