Backup Verification

Regular backups are only useful if they can be restored.

Verification Procedure

1. Select a Backup

2. Choose a recent backup from regular schedules.

3. Restore to a Test Environment

   • Restore the database to a non-production SQL Server.
   • Deploy a copy of the application files corresponding to that backup.
   • Update web.config to point to the restored database.

4. Run Smoke Tests

   • Login with a test account.
   • Open core modules (Projects, Resources, Timesheets, Procurement).
   • Check a subset of records and attachments.

5. Document Result

   • Record date and result of each backup verification.
   • Investigate and resolve any issues found.

Frequency: At least quarterly, or more frequently in high-risk environments.