Backup and Restore Database in SQL Server | Step-By-Step Guide

What Are The Types of SQL Server Backup?

Generally, an SQL Server backup is classified into three types. Users can opt for one of their choice to backup and restore databases in SQL Server. These are:

• Full Backup: It is also known as the Complete Backup and is created from the start. There is no previously created backup for this and it holds the entire database information. (Stores MDF files)
• Differential Backup: A backup formed between the last and current backup. A full database backup is essential to create it and since it takes less storage, the processing speed increases. This backup is mainly created to fill the backup gaps. (Stores NDF files)
• Transactional Log Backup: It is also referred to as the Incremental Backup. This is the last form of backup generated to store transaction logs of the database. (Stores LDF files)

Why Do Users Restore Database in SQL Server?

The significant reasons for which SQL server restore the database from backup is important are:

• Helps in case of hardware failure or data corruption.
• Suitable for data migration between devices and clients.
• Protection from viruses, threats, and other malware attacks.
• Grants access to the data in case of disasters or other issues.
• Best suited in case of damaged drives, accidental loss, or server loss.

With this, you must be clear about the need to create a backup of the SQL Server database. Now, let’s move towards reliable solutions to do so.

Effective Methods for SQL Backup and Restore

Evidently, there are two methods to backup and restore the SQL database. First, we will go through manual methods and their limitations. Then, find an alternative solution as per the expert’s recommendation.

Method 1: Use Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio

Follow the given steps to create a backup and then, restore the same:

1. Start SSMS and click Object Explorer to open the Database.
2. Right-click on your desired database to backup and click Tasks.
3. Further, select Backup, and in the window, specify Backup Type.
4. Select what to back up and provide other data accordingly.
5. After that, select the destination as Disk and click Add.
6. In the end, click OK to backup the database in SQL Server.
7. You can schedule this backup for later as well by following these:
• Move to Scripts at the top and opt for Script Action to Job.
• Next, go to the Schedule tab and press New to give a period.
• Click OK to set the time for processing the database backup.
8. Furthermore, to restore the database in SQL Server, right-click Database and choose Restore Databases.
9. In the window, choose the source and destination path for your backup file.
10. Click OK and then, Options from the left pane of Restore Databases.
11. Afterward, set the Restore Options and Recovery State as desired.
12. At last, click OK to complete the backup and recovery of the SQL database.

Method 2: Use Transact SQL (T-SQL) Query

This method is to be performed in the form of Powershell scripts. Follow these steps:

1. First, start Powershell and create a database.
2. Then, connect SQL Server to your database.
3. Later, run the given commands as per your need and press Enter.
   

Shortcomings of the Manual Method

• No guarantee of achieving the desired results after backup and recovery.
• A time-consuming process as there are multiple steps involved.
• Technical expertise or assistance is needed to perform steps accurately.
• Lengthy and complex process with high risks of losing confidentiality.

That is why, the expert suggests going for a more easy and secure solution with the tool explained below.

Method 3: Restore Database in SQL Server Using Automated Tool

If you want a more safe and accurate solution, use the SysInfo SQL Database Recovery Tool. With this tool, easily recover and restore your database contents in minimum steps. Additionally, choose to save the recovered SQL data in a database or as scripts. Moreover, this tool can recover deleted records in just one click without any limitations. The key features of this excellent utility are:

• Restore data from corrupt MDF and NDF files in just no time.
• Perform recovery for single as well as multiple files at once.
• Repair corrupt SQL Server database with two recovery modes.
• Supports all versions of MS SQL and Windows systems.
• Best for both technical and non-technical users.

Steps to Backup and Restore Database In SQL Server

1. Run MS SQL Database Recovery Tool and click Open to add the file.
2. Select the file and Standard or Advanced mode of recovery to repair.
3. Further, view other file options and hit OK to preview the recovered data.
4. Afterward, press Save and select to save in the database or as SQL scripts.
5. Accordingly, provide the required credentials or location path.
6. Select other filter options and features and at last, click OK to recover.

It’s just that simple to use this efficient tool.

Conclusion

The SQL Server backup is not daunting if you do it with the right procedures. This blog described three solutions to restore databases in SQL Server. The manual methods are a bit difficult and tiring if you are new to SQL. Also, there are chances of losing data in those methods. So, for better optimization, management, and restoration of data, prefer to use a professional tool. It is safe for all database elements and contains no limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

About The Author:

Simran Bhatia

Simran Bhatia is a technical content writer engaged in writing clear, concise, and SEO-optimized content. With a background in computer science and a passion for writing, I thrive to deliver complex technical content in simple layman terms.