How to backup a Windows server

Eugene

Making a Windows server backup is crucial for ensuring business continuity, data integrity, and system reliability. It protects against data loss due to hardware failures, cyberattacks, accidental deletions, or software corruption. Regular backups help restore critical systems quickly, minimize downtime, and safeguard valuable information, ensuring your organization can recover from unexpected disruptions efficiently.

How to backup a server

1. Log in to the Windows Server
   Access the server using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) or locally.

2. Open Windows Server Backup

Press Windows Key + S or press "Start", type Windows Server Backup, and open the application.

(If it's not installed, install it through Server Manager → Add roles and features → Features → Windows Server Backup.)

3. Create a Backup

In the Actions pane, click Backup Once (or Backup Schedule for automated backups). Choose Different Options and click Next. Select Custom and click Next. Add items to back up (e.g., system state, files, or entire drives). Click Next and choose a Destination Type:
* Local Drive: Select an attached disk.
* Network Share: Provide the network path and credentials.
If you want to save a backup into your server's disk, you need to create a separate partition.

4. Start the Backup

   Confirm the settings and click Backup. Wait for the process to complete.

5. Download the Backup to Your Computer

This step can be skipped, if you have saved your backup by using "Network Share".
Navigate to the backup location:
* For local drives: Connect via RDP/File Explorer and copy the backup file to your computer.
* For network shares: Map the network location on your computer and copy the backup.

How to Upload and Restore a Backup

1. Upload the Backup to the Server

Copy the backup file from your computer to the server. Use an RDP session and drag-and-drop or transfer via a mapped drive, network share, or FTP.

2. Restore the Backup

   Open Windows Server Backup. Log in to the server and open the Windows Server Backup tool.

3. Start the Restore Process
   In the Actions pane, click Recover. Choose the location of the backup:
   * Local Drives: Specify the local path.
   * Network Folder: Enter the network path and credentials.

4. Select the Backup to Restore
   Choose the backup date and time. Select the recovery type:
   * Files and Folders: For specific data.
   * System State: For system settings and configuration.
   * Full Server: For a complete server restore.

5. Complete the Restore
   Follow the prompts to restore data to its original location or an alternate path. Verify that the restoration was successful.

Conclusion

Creating a dedicated partition for backups on a Windows server is a practical way to ensure data is securely stored and organized. By following these steps, you can efficiently manage backups, minimize downtime in case of failures, and maintain the reliability of your server operations.