SQL SERVER DATABASE RECOVERY OVERVIEW

The SQL Server data recovery models can be divided into three types: simple, full, and bulk-logged. The simple recovery model is the most basic and only allows for a database to be backed up at a full or differential level. This model is suitable for applications that do not require point-in-time recovery, or when storage space is limited. In the simple recovery model, database transaction logs are cleared along with the Checkpoint or Backup operation to minimize transaction logs.

The full recovery model, on the other hand, is the most complex and provides the highest level of protection for your SQL Server data. This model supports full, differential, and file-level backups as well as transaction log backups. Compared to the simple model, databases using the full model have transaction log files that increase faster and are much larger. These database log files contain all transactions since the last full backup, and they must be backed up regularly to avoid data loss in case of media failure. The full recovery model also provides the ability to recover individual transactions using point-in-time restore operations. However, since SQL Server does not automatically truncate the log file under the full recovery model, it is possible for the log file to grow indefinitely if frequent backups are not performed. Therefore, it is important to understand how the full recovery model works and plan accordingly to avoid running out of disk space.

The bulk-logged recovery model is similar to the full recovery model, but it uses minimally logged operations for certain bulk operations such as index creation. This removes some of the overhead associated with these operations while still providing a high level of protection for your data. If bulk operations are performed in a database under the Full model, a large amount of log information will be generated, which can significantly impact SQL Server performance. The bulk-logged model is designed to solve this problem by only recording a few logs when a bulk Imports operation is performed. Backup assist can help ensure that your data is properly backed up before performing any Bulk Imports operations.

Regular backups are crucial to protect your data from loss in the event of a ransomware attack. Backups are the easiest way to get your original files back after getting infected with an encrypting ransomware. RP tech services SQL Server data backup and restore tools are the most comprehensive and reliable in the industry, offering a variety of backup options and three different recovery models to choose from.