SQL Server Database Snapshot: Restoring Databases to Previous States

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Utilizing Microsoft SQL Server’s Database Snapshot feature is an efficient way to perform a point-in-time restore and save a database’s historical state. It’s a remarkably useful tool for resolving issues that may occur during production, like accidental data deletions or updates, without having a significant impact on business operations.

What is a Database Snapshot?

In SQL Server, a Database Snapshot is a read-only, static view of a database which is transactionally consistent with the source database at the point when the snapshot was created. The Snapshot includes all the database’s data files but not the log files. It’s worth noting that the snapshot’s data files are sparse files that initially are small but will grow as changes are made to the source database.

Creating a Database Snapshot

To create a Database Snapshot, you can use the CREATE DATABASE command in conjunction with the AS SNAPSHOT OF clause. You also need to specify the logical name of the source database’s file and the filename for the sparse file that will be created for each data file.

Restoring a Database to a Previous State

To restore a database to the previous state, you can simply revert the source database to the snapshot. This operation restores the data that was in the database at the point when the snapshot was taken. The ROLLBACK operation will be applied to any transactions currently processing.

Deleting a Database Snapshot

When you no longer need a snapshot, you can delete it with the DROP DATABASE command:

Conclusion

In conclusion, SQL Server Database Snapshot is a useful feature that can be used as a safeguard mechanism for the data in your database. By constantly creating snapshots, you can easily revert your database to a previous state whenever necessary.