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Generating a backup of the vCenter Server database for analysis (1032662)
Purpose
This article provides guidelines on generating a backup of the vCenter Server database when using Microsoft SQL Server, SQL Server Express, and Oracle databases. A single file is generated, which can be uploaded for support purposes.
When troubleshooting data issues in the vCenter Server database, it may be necessary to generate a backup of the database for analysis.
Note: If you use SQL Server Express, it is necessary to download Management Studio Express from the Microsoft website to generate a backup.
Resolution
Generating a backup is accomplished by doing a full backup of the database.
To generate a backup of the vCenter Sever database when using Microsoft SQL Server or SQL Server Express:
Use SQL Server Management Studio or SQL Server Management Studio Express. For detailed steps on creating a full backup, see Create a Full Database Backup (SQL Server). Upload the resulting file (which has a .bak extension) to support when requested.
To generate a backup of the vCenter Server database when using Oracle:
There are multiple tools available to generate a full backup of an Oracle database, depending on your version and installation. For more information on creating a full backup, see Oracle's documentation and support site. For example, see Oracle database Backup and Recovery FAQ. Upload the resulting file to support when requested.
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