Consider backing up the event databases frequently, depending on the volume of audit data you collect and your established disaster recovery strategies. For best results, use the following guidelines:
- Perform a full backup, including the transaction logs
- Schedule the backup during off-hours, or times when you expect the least audit activity
- Back up all event databases during the same backup procedure
- Save each database to a separate backup file
- Back up the SQLcompliance database during the same backup procedure to ensure audit data integrity remains intact
To back up the event databases:
- Use SQL Server Enterprise Manager or Management Studio to take the SQLcompliance database offline. If you cannot take the SQLcompliance database offline, stop the Collection Service.
- Use a tool such as IDERA SQL Safe to perform a full backup, including transaction logs, of the SQLcompliance database.
For each event database, perform a full backup, including the transaction logs. Each registered SQL Server instance has a corresponding event database. For more information, see Product components and architecture. - Use SQL Server Enterprise Manager or Management Studio to bring the SQLcompliance database online.