title: Best way of upgrading SQL Server Compact Edition 3.5 database?
body: <p>I have a desktop application that uses an SQL Server CE 3.5 database. I can not use any other SQL Server edition. Now I'm wondering: In case of future updates to the functionality, how would I best upgrade the database (= keep current data but add new fields/tables/etc.)?</p>
  
  <p>If I used one of the server editions, I'd just write an upgrade script and run it. My current idea is to do the following:</p>
  
  <ol>
  <li>Rename the old database file
  (backup) </li>
  <li>Copy the new database file</li>
  <li>Connect to both database files </li>
  <li>Copy all data from old to new
  database programmatically</li>
  </ol>
  
  <p>This works, but the approach does not seem optimal. Is there an easier and more reliable way?</p>