Backup software SQL ready

[ComputerPro]

Can anyone recommend the best backup program that is SQL aware?

Also is there a freeware version that is SQL aware and solid?

Thanks in advance,

Terry

 

[deachus]

I use Storagecraft Shadowprotect to backup my SQL server. Best backup software Ive ever used. Restoration is a breeze.

 

[YeOldeStonecat]

Don't know of any freebies....but Red Gate is the last one I saw in use.

As much as I love Storagecraft...techinically it's not "SQL Aware"...as it just leverages VSS. SQL Aware backup software backs up SQL databases in a totally different manner, not using the typical database files but pulling from the transaction logs I believe. Typically VSS software just snapshots the database files. But technically...some data that is in system memory at the time of the snapshot can be missed, which is why some super picky SQL admins prefer properly SQL aware backup software.

 

[freedomit]

SQL Backup & FTP Free

 

[e2346437]

sqlbak.com has an account that is free for two databases on one server. On the paid side, iBackup.com has SQL, Exchange, and AD backup built into their client software.

 

[ComputerPro]

iBackup

Big difference in price between Storagecraft shadowprotect and iBackup. Any reasons to use the more expensive option?

 

[Moltuae]

Not tried it myself yet, but there's Macrium Reflect Server Plus.

Though it ain't free (or even cheap):
http://www.macrium.com/business.aspx

Supports

Microsoft Exchange Server 2003/2007/2010/2013
Microsoft SQL Server 2005/2008/2012/2014​

Unique features for Server Plus

Exchange Mailbox Restore (Granular Recovery)
SQL Continuous Backup
Full SQL & Exchange server backup & recovery​

 

[e2346437]

Big difference in price between Storagecraft shadowprotect and iBackup. Any reasons to use the more expensive option?

By "more expensive" I assume you mean Storagecraft is more expensive than iBackup.

They are in different classes really. Storagecraft images your entire box (to external storage), so that if it goes down you can restore the image to a new box pretty easily and return to production. Storagecraft licenses don't usually include cloud storage, so you will have to pay extra for off-site storage, which you really shouldn't do without.

iBackup only backs up files but does so to the cloud, and as I mentioned, is SQL, Exchange, and AD-aware. If you server crashes, you have to reinstall the OS, install SQL, then install iBackup and do an SQL restore.

There is no perfect answer, it all depends on your setup and your budget. With more info about your environment I could make further suggestions.