Backing Up and Restoring User Databases

Generally, depending on the level of recoverability, speed, size, and simplicity required, the methods most likely to be used for backing up and restoring user databases are:

• Using database backups.
• Using database and transaction log backups.
• Using database and differential database backups.

Backups are created on backup devices, such as disk or tape media. Microsoft® SQL Server™ allows you to determine how you want to create your backups on backup devices, such as overwriting existing backups, or appending new backups to existing backups (thereby creating a history of backups). These options help you implement your backup and restore strategy.

See Also

Choosing a Backup and Restore Strategy