How to Backup Your MS SQL Database

A database backup creates a complete snapshot of your MS SQL database, including data files, log files, and full text catalogs. This single file (.bak) allows you to restore your database to a specific point in time or migrate it to another server.

Why use this method?

We highly recommend using the Backup/Restore method for deployments. Crucially, if your database utilizes Full Text Search, this is the only supported method to preserve and deploy your full text catalogs correctly.

Part 1: Backing Up Your Hosted Database

Follow these steps to create a backup of a database currently running on our servers.

1. Navigate to the Backup Tab
   • In the control panel, navigate to the MS SQL section.
   • Click on the specific database you wish to backup.
   • Select the Backup tab from the top menu.
2. Configure the Backup
   • Backup location: This shows the server address where your file will be stored.
   • Backup location folder: Select the folder where you want to save the file (default is usually root /).
   • Backup file name: Enter a name for your backup file (e.g., db_backup_2023.bak).
3. Run the Process
   • Click the BACKUP DATABASE button.
   • The process may take several minutes depending on the size of your database.
4. Download the File
   • Once finished, the file is saved to your Backup location.
   • You can download it immediately by clicking the backup file manager link in the information banner, or by connecting via FTP.

Part 2: Backing Up a Local Database (For Deployment)

If you are trying to move a database from your local computer to our servers, you first need to create a backup locally. You can do this via SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) or by running a T-SQL command.

T-SQL Command Example:
Run the following query on your local database to generate a compatible backup file:

BACKUP DATABASE [DBName] TO DISK = 'C:\Backups\MyBackup.bak' WITH INIT, NOUNLOAD, NAME = 'MyBackup', NOSKIP, STATS = 10, NOFORMAT

Parameters:

• [DBName]: The name of the database you are backing up.
• 'C:\Backups\MyBackup.bak': The full path on your local drive where you want to save the file.

Once generated, you can upload this file to your hosting account and restore it to deploy your database.