We had a question submitted regarding the ‘unlimited’ setting for data files and log files in SQL Server. It seems that it is being misinterpreted as a setting that allows data and log files to grow to an unlimited size. This is not the case. The definition of ‘unlimited’ in this case means that a file will be allowed to grow until the disk is full. The size limits imposed by SQL Server are still enforced (data = 16TB, log file = 2TB).

Here is the link to the BOL entry for CREATE DATABASE which documents ‘unlimited’ clearly.