How do I backup a database using SQL Server Management Studio?

Connect to your database server instance with SQL Server Management Studio.

Expand Databases in the left pane.

Right-Click on the database you wish to back up. Navigate to  "Tasks --> Back Up".

Ensure the backup type is set to Full.

If there is a destination file already in the list, click it and click "Remove".

Click "Add..." to specify a new backup file.

In the window, enter the location and name of the backup file, or browse to it.

On the left-hand side of the backup task window, click on "Options".

Check the box for "Overwrite all existing backup sets". 

Click Ok to perform the backup.

Article ID: 189, Created On: 1/11/2010, Modified: 5/11/2011