SQL databases have changed the way databases were managed. They enhanced the power of websites, especially online stores. Everyone from large corporations to individuals managing any size of database need to take frequent backups. Any potential data loss can be disastrous. It is one of the most cumbersome and time-consuming tasks, but it is something that cannot be ignored at any cost. SQLbak is a proven database backup and management software that allows you to schedule SQL database backups at any level or magnitude.
This review explores the key features of SQLbak.
Schedule Backups
With SQLbak allows you to schedule backups of your SQL database or databases, all from one place – a dashboard. It provides you just one dashboard from where you can take full control of the backups.
Set the schedule to take place at your convenient time. There is an email alert for success or failure of the schedule.
Restore Backup
SQLbak also supports one-click backup restoration. If you ever face a situation where part of the database or its entirety is lost, you can restore the backup.
This application allows you to take backups on a wide range of storage resources. This includes not only the local computer, but a server and even the Cloud. You can schedule the backups to take place on any storage space including:
- Dropbox
- OneDrive
- Amazon S3
- Azure Blog Storage
- Google Drive
- FTP
The database backups can also be stored in local folders.
Browser Based Dashboard
SQLbak also offers a browser-based dashboard so that you can manage your SQL database from anywhere. You can access the dashboard from your laptop, smartphone or tablet. The dashboard can also be personalized to your own preferences.
Monitor SQL Server Performance
Managing your SQL database isn’t just about taking and restoring backups. It also involves monitoring the SQL Server’s performance. The software allows you to keep track of your not only the backup/restore progress, but also of the Server performance. It also has diagnostic capabilities so that issues can be fixed.
Ease of Use
Anyone with basic skills can use SQLbak to manage their SQL database. Even if you are an advanced user, you will find this application providing you all the tools required to schedule backups, restore database/s, and monitor server performance to match your specific requirements.
Install the application and sign-up for an account. You can then add a scheduling task from the dashboard and select the server. There is an authentication system to it that includes SQL Server and Windows authentication. You can also test to ensure that the settings are working as per your preferences.
There are many parameters for you to choose from, including email address and cloud hosting accounts. Once you set the email address, you will always get alerts about the database’s status.
Plans & Pricing
There are three SQLbak plans to choose from.
1. Free Plan
The free plan allows you to take SQL Server backups on local folders, FTP or external hard drive. It lets you add only a single server and a maximum of 2 databases.
Even the free plan alerts you if the server is down. However, the alert is made only once per 60 minutes.
2. Standard Plan
This plan is available for just $12 (currently $6) a month for each server. It sends database down alerts every 10 minutes and allows backups on FTP and three cloud services including GoogleDrive, Dropbox and OneDrive.
3. Professional Plan
This is the recommended SQLbak plan because it offers the complete suite of feature offered by the software. Besides FTP and other cloud storage resources, you can also take backups on Amazon S3. If you choose this plan, you will get SQL Server down alerts every 5 minutes. Additional features include SQL Server health check, AES encryption, and extended support. This plan costs just $16 (currently $9) per month per server.
Conclusion
If you have a SQL database, you will have to take backups from time to time. Your business prospects depend on how effectively and reliably you handle the backup part. SQLbak is trusted by thousands of small and large businesses, including some of the leading brands. It is easy to use and highly reliable. You will always get backup confirmation alerts or failure alerts. If you choose the premium plan, you are getting access to server health check, advanced encryption, extended support, and down alerts every 5 minutes.
