title: SQL Server 2008 finds database in .BAK, but SQL Server 2008 R2 does not
body: <p>We received a <code>.bak</code> file as an export from an Act! database. My understanding is that this is a SQL Server backup that can be restored to SQL Server. </p>
  
  <p>When I try to restore it to SQL Server 2008 Express (10.0.1600), I point to device: <code>path_to_backup.bak</code>. It immediately finds a database failed IFR_contacts, which is placed in the list of backup sets to restore. When I click Verify Backup Media, I receive the following error message:</p>
  
  <blockquote>
    <p>The database was backed up on a server running version 10.50.2500.
    That version is incompatible with this server, which is running
    version 10.00.1600.</p>
  </blockquote>
  
  <p>So I try to restore the file to SQL Server 2008 R2 SP2 Express (10.50.4000), but now when I point to the backup file, SQL Server doesn't find a database or a backup set to restore. I've tried in SQL Server 2012 Express, as well, with the same results as when I  use R2. </p>
  
  <p>I understand the compatibility issue when I'm trying to open with SQL Server 2008, but I'm confused that 2008 R2 and 2012 don't even find a database in the file when 2008 is able to. Why would that be?</p>
  
  <p><strong>Update</strong></p>
  
  <p>Just to see what would happen, I downloaded and installed version 10.50.2500. It also does not a database or backup set to restore. Really confused as to how 10.00.1600 sees a later version that it can't open, but the later versions just don't see anything.</p>