Backup
Backing up an SAP system protects its most valuable asset, the database, and the configuration needed to rebuild it. Because SAP runs the business, a reliable, tested backup regime is fundamental, not optional.
A backup you have never restored is only a hopeful assumption.
- For HANA, backups cover the data area plus continuous log backups so you can do point-in-time recovery.
- Backup frequency (especially log backups) is driven by your RPO, how much data loss is tolerable.
- The database (data and, crucially, logs), the authoritative state.
- Watch out: Backing up data but not logs, no point-in-time recovery.
What to back up
- The database (data and, crucially, logs), the authoritative state.
- The file system components (kernel, profiles, interfaces).
- Configuration and documentation needed to reconstruct the system.
Database backup essentials
For HANA, backups cover the data area plus continuous log backups so you can do point-in-time recovery. Full/incremental/differential strategies balance backup time against restore speed. Backups should be automated, stored offsite/encrypted, and monitored for success.
Backup and the recovery point
Backup frequency (especially log backups) is driven by your RPO, how much data loss is tolerable. Frequent log backups mean you can recover to close to the point of failure.
Test restores
A backup you have never restored is only a hopeful assumption. Regularly test restores in a non-production environment to prove the backups are valid and that your team can actually recover.
Common pitfalls
- Backing up data but not logs, no point-in-time recovery.
- Never testing a restore.
- Backups only stored on-site, lost with the site.