title: SQL Server (localdb)\v11.0 explained
body: <p>I'm following <a href="http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/data/jj200620">Code First to an Existing Database</a> tutorial and noticed that it suggested to connect to <code>(localdb)\v11.0</code> in learning purposes. I've tried to connect to it using my SQL Management Studio and it worked. But when I've restored a DB backup it created an <code>[DatabaseName].mdf</code> file in my user's directory.</p>
  
  <p>I'm quite surprised and have following questions:</p>
  
  <ol>
  <li>What is a <code>(localdb)\v11.0</code>? Does it uses my SQL Express or SQL Compact?</li>
  <li>Does it support only databases stored in <code>.mdf</code> files?</li>
  <li>How can I specify path for my restore other than my user's folder?</li>
  <li>What general purposes does it serve (is it for learning purposes only)?</li>
  <li>Where can I find more info about this kind of database?</li>
  </ol>