How to Back Up Active Directory in Windows

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Understand what constitutes a good backup to properly plan a backup schedule.

   At least two domain controllers should be backed up in each domain, including one that is an operations master role holder.
   
   The backup should contain the system state and the contents of the system disk.
   
   Backups should be less than 60 days old.
2. 2

   Step 2: Log on to the Domain Controller locally as an administrator or a backup operator.

   , Navigate to Programs, Accessories, System Tools.
   
   Select "Backup." Click on the backup wizard button and choose "next."
   
   ,, Select "system disk." Click "next."
   
   ,, If necessary, select the Advanced button and follow the prompts until reaching the Media Options screen.
   
   Choose "Replace the data on the media with this backup."
   
   Choose "yes" to overwrite data.
3. 3

   Step 3: Left-click on the start button.

4. 4

   Step 4: Choose "back up selected files

5. 5

   Step 5: drives

6. 6

   Step 6: or network data."

7. 7

   Step 7: Select "System State" on the screen that asks what items to back up.

8. 8

   Step 8: Click the plus sign next to the drive letter that contains the system files to expand the selection.

9. 9

   Step 9: Specify a folder or tape device to backup to in the "Where to Store the Backup" choice.

10. 10

    Step 10: Name the file if using file backup

11. 11

    Step 11: or select the tape to be used if using a tape in the "Backup Media or File Name" box.

12. 12

    Step 12: Make sure the selection "Prompt to replace data" is included under the "How" category.

13. 13

    Step 13: Follow the prompts to the "finish" screen.

Detailed Guide

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