Databases are among the most critical assets in any IT environment. Microsoft SQL Server hosts transactional and operational data that must be protected against accidental deletion, corruption, ransomware, and infrastructure failures. The NoSky Cloud Backup Solution supports SQL Server–aware backup and restore workflows that allow administrators to recover databases quickly and safely.
This Knowledge Base article provides a technical, step-by-step guide for performing SQL Server backup and restore using NoSky, including restore scenarios, commands, troubleshooting, security considerations, and best practices.
NoSky provides database-aware backup capabilities for Microsoft SQL Server, including:
Application-consistent SQL backups
Full, differential, and log backup support (based on configuration)
Point-in-time restore using transaction logs
Restore to original or alternate SQL Server instance
Encrypted backup storage and transfer
Centralized monitoring and job logs
These features help ensure data integrity and rapid recovery during incidents.
NoSky integrates with SQL Server through its backup agent installed on the database host. The agent communicates with SQL Server services to create application-consistent snapshots, ensuring databases are in a recoverable state.
High-Level Flow:
NoSky agent connects to SQL Server instance
SQL databases are quiesced for consistency
Backup data is captured and encrypted
Data is transferred to NoSky cloud storage
Restore points are indexed and retained
During restore, NoSky retrieves the selected snapshot and restores the database files or passes control back to SQL Server for recovery.
| Restore Type | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Full Database Restore | Restores entire database | Database corruption |
| Point-in-Time Restore | Restore to specific time | Accidental data changes |
| Alternate Instance Restore | Restore to different SQL server | Testing / forensics |
| Overwrite Existing DB | Replace current database | Disaster recovery |
| New Database Restore | Restore with new DB name | Validation / audit |
Accidental table or record deletion
Database corruption after patching
Ransomware attack on SQL data files
Migration testing using restored data
Compliance-driven historical data recovery
SQL Server crash or OS failure
SQL Server service running
NoSky backup agent installed on SQL host
At least one successful SQL backup available
SQL admin privileges
Log in to the NoSky web console
Navigate to Devices / Backup Sources
Select the SQL Server host
Click Restore
Select Application Backup → SQL Server
Choose the database name
Select:
Backup date
Backup time
For PIT restore, specify exact time (if supported)
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Original Database | Overwrites existing DB |
| New Database Name | Restores as separate DB |
| Alternate Server | Restore to another SQL host |
| File Location | Custom MDF/LDF paths |
Confirm restore parameters
Click Start Restore
Monitor progress from Restore Jobs / Logs
SELECT name, state_desc
FROM sys.databases;
| Issue | Cause | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Restore fails | SQL service stopped | Start SQL Server service |
| Access denied | Insufficient SQL rights | Use sysadmin role |
| DB stuck in restoring | Log chain incomplete | Complete restore sequence |
| MDF/LDF path error | Path missing | Create directories |
| Slow restore | Disk I/O or bandwidth | Restore during off-peak hours |
SQL backups are encrypted in transit and at rest
Restrict restore permissions using SQL RBAC
Restore to alternate instance for forensic review
Audit restore activity through logs
Secure SQL service accounts
✔ Schedule SQL backups during low-usage windows
✔ Regularly test SQL restore procedures
✔ Use point-in-time restore for critical systems
✔ Maintain sufficient disk space for restores
✔ Document SQL recovery steps for DR plans
✔ Monitor restore logs after completion
The NoSky Cloud Backup Solution enables reliable and secure SQL Server backup and restore operations, ensuring minimal downtime and data loss. By following structured restore procedures and SQL best practices, organizations can confidently recover databases during incidents.
For SQL backup deployment, restore testing, or troubleshooting assistance, contact Bison Infosolutions, an authorized NoSky partner.
? +91 9212522725 | ? info@bison.co.in
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