Are SQL Azure Databases Backed Up?

Question

Hi,

When I create a database on Windows Azure SQL through my portal, are my databases being backed up automatically? If so, how do I get back up information about my databases i.e. how often they're backed up and where I can get the last backup, etc.

If they're not automatically backed up, how do I handle their backup?

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Thanks, Sam

Answer 1

Hi,

First thing is you are responsible for backing up your databases, so you can use automated export feature or can use copy database command o back up your dbs periodically.

In case is you loose backups and main db gets deleted by mistake you can open ticket with Microsoft but it does not mean that you will get your data for sure or not.

So never rely on Azure platform to backup your data, it does provide high availability as it maintains multiple replicas.

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Thanks, Dilkush Patel Microsoft SQL Developer Support Microsoft Corporation

Answer 2

Thank you.

Did some more research. For those who are getting started -- like me -- here's what I've learned:

1. No auto backups out of the box. We have to set them up.
2. Create an Azure Storage account and create a container in it for your DB back ups.
3. Then go to each SQL Azure database you want to back up and "Export" it into the container you've created in Step 2. Export creates a BACKPAC file which is a compressed version of the database schema and data at the time of the "export".
4. Finally, automate the Export so that it occurs automatically.

Here are two great links:

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windowsazure/jj650016.aspx

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windowsazure/hh335292.aspx

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Thanks, Sam