Unrecognized Database Format

Symptoms

Likely Cause 1

This might have happened if you attempted to open the database in an earlier version of Access (but the database was created in a later version).

Resolution

You will need to convert the database to a previous version of Access, using your current version.
By converting your database you can open the database with an older version of Access. This is only possible if you you have the newer version of Access however.

This screenshot indicates where you can find the utlity for converting your database.

Likely Cause 2

The unrecognized database format error message is a commonly recognized symptom of a damaged (corrupted) database and will prevent the user from running the Compact and Repair Database option in Access.

Resolution

If you have a backup then you can restore your data from the older copy. If your backup has sufficiently less data than the corrupt version then you may require the help of a professional to repair the file.

We strongly recommend you submit your file for analysis and receive your Free Recovery Report.