Creating Backups and Archives

The FILE option on the Main Menu (shown below) provides several important functions which allow you to open previously archived databases, as well as create and restore backups.  These functions are simple to use but critically important to protect your data.  Your data is an important asset of your business.  You must take steps to implement a backup plan to protect this asset.  See DB-Support - Defining Backup Specifications for more info on creating backup plans..

Kressa Software allows you to send your backup to the SchoolLeader FTP site via the Kressa Software DataVault Backup Service.  This is an additional service that can simplify your off-site backup plan.  Contact Kressa Software for more information on this service..

Open Archive Database

To view a database that has already been archived via the DB-Support Archiving Database function, click on OPEN ARCHIVE DATABASE.  The following window will appear:

In this example, there are no archive databases to choose from.  If you had archived your data, your archives will be displayed in this window.  Click on the archive you wish to view, and then click on START SELECTED ARCHIVE.

Archive databases are 'read only'.  You cannot modify data that has been archived.

When you are done viewing the archive, click on OPEN ARCHIVE DATABASE, then click on START PRIMARY DATABASE to restore your primary database.

Import/Restore Current Database

The import/restore function works in conjunction with the export/backup function.  Use the import/restore function to import and/or restore a SchoolLeader database that has been previously created with the export/backup function.

Typical uses for the import/restore database function are:

The import/restore function only works from the SchoolLeader server.  This is a security feature that ensures that databases are not arbitrarily imported without proper permission.

To import/restore a database:

Tell SchoolLeader to 'LOOK IN' by clicking on the down arrow to select the correct drive and/or folder of the file you want to import.  Click on the file name, and then click on OPEN.  The import process will begin.  

You will receive a message that the import was successful. Click on OK, and then restart SchoolLeader FrontDesk.

 

Export/Backup Current Database

The export/backup function works in sync with the import/restore function.  Use the export/backup function to create a 'zipped up' backup of your database.

We cannot stress enough the importance of backing up your database to an external device such as a CD or zip disk  Disasters can and do happen.  There is nothing worse than when our technical support receives a call that your hard drive has crashed, and the customer says 'I don't have a backup'.  

Remember that it is your responsibility to take backups of your data.  Please take this responsibility seriously.

Typical uses for the export/backup database function are:

The export/backup function only works from the SchoolLeader server.  This is a security feature that ensures that databases are not arbitrarily exported without proper permission.

To export/backup a database:

Tell SchoolLeader to 'SAVE IN' by clicking on the down arrow to select the correct drive and/or folder of where you want to save the backup.  Type in a filename (in this example SchoolLeader.bak), then click on SAVE.  You will receive a confirmation message that your database backup has been created successfully.  Your database has been saved in a 'zipped up' format to minimize the amount of space needed to store your data.

If ever you need to restore this database, use the import/restore function.

Once your backup is successfully created, you will be given the option to send your backup to the SchoolLeader FTP site via the Kressa Software DataVault Backup Service.  This is an additional service that can be established by calling the SchoolLeader technical support phone number.

 

Verify Offsite Backup

As a subscriber to the DataVault Backup Service, you can verify the status of your backups.  Click on VERIFY OFFSITE BACKUP and the following box will appear: