[sims] Verify Backup

[bladedanny]

Simple one really. How do you verify your SIMS/FMS databases have backed up correctly?

 

Thanks,

 

Dan

[matt40k]

How do you backup SIMS in the first place? Stop MSSQL copy the files, or dbattach or other?

[bladedanny]

I use DBattach via cmd line on a scheduled task. It's creating the .bak file ok. I also know in theory how to restore from this file. I just need to know if it has worked ok.

 

My first thoughts are to try and install SIMS on a VM that's seperate from out main network and try the restore. Would this be feasible?

 

Thanks,

 

Dan

[matt40k]

Could do, create a xp VM, ask for the latest installable media. Then run dbattach with the /restoreui and copy over docstorage etc.

 

Won't be perfect, but should be ok for a test.

[vikpaw]

i would make a proper vm for testing purposes. it's always useful to test out the upgrades before going live, incase it's going to break something in your setup.

i even have a copy of the doc storage there. you just have to be careful with naming and connections so the two paths don't cross. i usually use a different mapped drive, and only log into the virtual box locally.

[matt40k]

I think Cornwell LA have a "mirror" setup for that sole purpose. Basically backups the live database daily, restores onto the other database database