# Backups

MariaDB supports both automatic and manual backups. In addition, you can also use the self-restore function via the API to restore MariaDB clusters from a backup.

## Automatic backups

<code class="expression">space.vars.ionos\_cloud</code>, by default, performs automatic backups, which are full backups that run regularly at a specific hour based on the value set in the DBaaS component. Automatic backups are created in either of the following instances:

* During the creation of a cluster.
* Upon upgrading the current version of MariaDB to a higher version.
* When a Point-In-Time-Recovery operation is conducted.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** <code class="expression">space.vars.ionos\_cloud</code> maintains backups for the last seven days so that you can recover them for up to a week.
{% endhint %}

## Manual backup

<code class="expression">space.vars.ionos\_cloud</code> facilitates the "logical" backup option using `mariadb-dump`. Alternatively, you can also use the `mariadb-dump` client to back data to a different location. For more information, refer to the [<mark style="color:blue;">MariaDB Documentation</mark>](https://mariadb.com/kb/en/mariadb-dump/).

## Self-Restore MariaDB Clusters from the Backup

<code class="expression">space.vars.ionos\_cloud</code> DBaaS offers a self-restore feature to restore MariaDB clusters, which allows an efficient restoration of your clusters from a backup to a previous state or point in time without manual intervention. It reduces downtime and minimizes data loss in case of unforeseen events. You can either use the [<mark style="color:blue;">DCD</mark>](/cloud/databases/mariadb/dcd-how-tos/restore-mariadb-cluster-from-backup.md) or the [<mark style="color:blue;">API</mark>](/cloud/databases/mariadb/api-howtos/restore-mariadb-cluster-from-backup.md) to self-restore your MariaDB clusters.

The following are some of the features and benefits of self-restore:

* **Point-in-Time Recovery:** You can restore your MariaDB clusters to a specific point in time. For example, you can roll back the cluster to a state before data corruption, accidental deletions, etc.
* **Automated Process:** The automated process significantly streamlines and reduces the time and effort required to restore a MariaDB cluster. You can initiate the restore process through the API.
* **Data Consistency:** It ensures that the restored MariaDB cluster is consistent and matches the data state at the specified point in time. It helps maintain data integrity and coherence across applications interacting with the respective MariaDB cluster.
* **User Control:** You have complete control over the restoration process, allowing you to select a specific point in time for the restoration process and monitor its progress.


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