Complete Guide to Backup & Restore SQL Server Databases on EgyVPS Servers

A comprehensive guide for backing up and restoring SQL Server databases on EgyVPS servers. Covers Full Backup, Differential Backup, Transaction Log Backup, and Database Restore with practical examples and expert tips.

Regular database backup and restore is crucial to ensure data security and business continuity. Whether using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS), Azure Backup, or VPS tools, having a structured backup strategy protects your data from hardware failures, cyberattacks, or human errors.

This guide explains full, differential, and transaction log backups, as well as database restore methods, with actionable tips for reliable data management.

1. Backing Up SQL Server Databases

1.1 Using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)

Steps:

1. Open SSMS and connect to your SQL Server instance.

2. In Object Explorer, expand Databases.

3. Right-click the database → Tasks → Backup.

4. Choose backup type:

   • Full Backup: complete database backup.

   • Differential Backup: changes since the last full backup.

   • Transaction Log Backup: records all transactions since the last backup.

5. Select destination path and click OK.

Tips:

• Store backups separately from the original server (VPS or cloud).

• Automate backups using Maintenance Plans for scheduled backups.

1.2 Using Azure Backup

1. Create a backup policy in Azure Backup Center.

2. Specify data source, backup type (full, differential, log), and schedule.

3. Restore can be done to individual files (.bak) and transferred to other servers.

Azure Advantage: automated backups reduce manual management.

2. Full Backup

What is Full Backup?

A full backup contains all data and database objects and serves as the base for differential or transaction log backups.

Steps:

1. Open SSMS → connect to your VPS SQL Server.

2. Right-click the database → Tasks → Backup.

3. Select Full backup type, choose destination, and click OK.

Tips:

• Perform regular full backups (e.g., weekly).

• Automate using SQL Server Agent for scheduled full backups.

3. Differential Backup

What is Differential Backup?

Stores only the changes since the last full backup, saving storage and time.

Steps:

1. Ensure a full backup exists.

2. Right-click database → Tasks → Backup.

3. Select Differential as backup type.

4. Choose destination and click OK.

Advantages:

• Faster than full backup.

• Smaller file size.

• Quicker restoration with the last full and differential backups.

4. Transaction Log Backup

Captures all transactions since the last backup and allows point-in-time recovery.

Using SSMS:

1. Right-click database → Tasks → Backup.

2. Select Transaction Log.

3. Choose destination and click OK.

Using T-SQL:

Tips:

• Database must be in Full or Bulk-Logged recovery model.

• Schedule regular log backups to minimize data loss.

5. Restoring a Database

5.1 Using SSMS

1. Open SSMS → connect to SQL Server.

2. Right-click Databases → Restore Database.

3. Select Device → Add to locate your backup (.bak).

4. Choose destination: same location or alternate.

5. Advanced options: close existing connections, select point-in-time if needed.

6. Click OK and monitor progress.

5.2 Other Restore Methods

• MDF/NDF Files: Use specialized tools to attach and restore.

• Azure: Restore via Data Protection Manager or portal.

• Damaged backups: Repair with tools like Repair Toolbox.

6. Managing Backups on VPS

6.1 Using cPanel / JetBackup

• Backup: Login → JetBackup → Backup Now.

• Restore: JetBackup → Restore → choose the backup.

6.2 Command-line Tools

MySQL:

PostgreSQL:

Tips:

• Use secure transfer like SFTP.

• Update app config files after restoring database.

7. Professional Backup Strategies

1. Backup Frequency: daily at minimum.

2. 3-2-1 Rule: 3 copies, 2 different media, 1 offsite.

3. Backup Mix: Full + Differential + Transaction Log.

4. Backup Security: encrypt backups, minimal permissions, protect against SQL injection.

5. Test Restore Regularly: ensure backup reliability.

8. Advanced Disaster Recovery Tips

• Automate using Maintenance Plans and SQL Server Agent.

• For disaster recovery, reinstall SQL Server same version, then restore backups.

• Online backup during live database operation reduces downtime.

• Ensure network connection for cloud backups.

❓ FAQ

1. Full vs Differential Backup?

• Full: complete database.

• Differential: changes since last full backup.

2. Can I restore to another server?
Yes, using .bak files or Azure Backup.

3. What is Transaction Log Backup?
Captures all changes since last backup, enabling point-in-time recovery.

4. Can backups be scheduled automatically?
Yes, via SQL Server Agent or Maintenance Plans.

5. Best storage practices?
3-2-1 rule, encryption, regular restore testing.

6. Can backups run while the database is live?
Yes, using Online Backup.

7. Recommended tools for VPS backup?
Beginners: cPanel & JetBackup
Advanced: Command-line tools (mysqldump, pg_dump, T-SQL)

8. What if a backup file is corrupted?
Use repair tools or restore from alternative backups.

هل تحتاج إلى Windows VPS سريع وآمن وبسعر مناسب؟
شركة EgyVPS بتوفرلك سيرفرات ويندوز جاهزة للاستخدام فورًا.
? تواصل معنا عبر: 201001197157
? أو زور موقعنا: https://egyvps.com