Things You'll Need:
- SQL Server Management Studio 2005 (may also work with other versions of SQL Server)
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Step 1
First open Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio and connect to the SQL Server instance that contains the database that you wish to backup.
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Step 2
In the 'Object Explorer' navigation tree (typically on the left side) drill down through the plus signs until you reach the necessary database.
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Step 3
Right click on the SQL Server database and choose 'Tasks'. Then choose the option 'Back Up...'
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Step 4
In the source section it should have already chosen your database. If not, choose it. The next step is to choose your backup type. The backup type can either be 'Full' or 'Differential'. If you've never made a database backup before then a Full database backup is necessary. If it has been a long time since the last full backup a full database backup is definitely recommended.
A differential backup is useful if you regularly backup your database. The differential backup will only backup those items including data that have changed since your last backup. If using a differential backup, during the database restore process it is necessary to first restore the full backup and then restore the differential backup. -
Step 5
Give the backup a name and description as necessary. Then choose a location for the database to be backed up to. If you prefer not to use the default location, choose the 'Add...' button and then browse to a new location using the '...' button. Then when you click okay, make sure that your new location is selected in the 'Destination' portion of the window.
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Step 6
Finally, click okay and then Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio does the rest! When complete the system will notify you. Of course, the larger your database is, the longer it will take to backup.
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Step 7
It is a good idea to store your database backup and your database in separate locations. If you didn't backup your database to a separate machine/server it is a good idea to move it to a separate location at this time.
