> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ionos.com/cloud/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ionos.com/cloud/~/revisions/AMiYziCllTKB2y2lmONY/databases/mariadb/overview/backups.md).

# 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

IONOS, 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:** IONOS maintains backups for the last seven days so that you can recover them for up to a week.
{% endhint %}

## Manual backup

IONOS 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

IONOS DBaaS offers a self-restore feature to restore MariaDB clusters, an efficient way to restore your clusters from a backup to a previous state or point in time without manual intervention; thus, reducing downtime and minimizing data loss in case of unforeseen events. You can either use the [<mark style="color:blue;">DCD</mark>](/cloud/~/revisions/AMiYziCllTKB2y2lmONY/databases/mariadb/dcd-how-tos/restore-mariadb-cluster-from-backup.md) or the [<mark style="color:blue;">API</mark>](/cloud/~/revisions/AMiYziCllTKB2y2lmONY/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:** The self-restore feature enables you to restore your MariaDB clusters to a specific point in time. For example, in scenarios where data corruption, accidental deletions, or issues arise, you can roll back the cluster to a state before the problem occurs.
* **Automated Process:** The self-restore operation is typically automated within the IONOS DBaaS platform, streamlining it and reducing the time and effort needed to restore a MariaDB cluster. You can initiate the restore process through the API.
* **Data Consistency:** The self-restore feature ensures that the restored MariaDB cluster is consistent and matches the data state at the specified point in time. It helps uphold data integrity and coherence across applications interacting with the respective MariaDB cluster.
* **User Control:** DBaaS provides complete control of the restoration process, enabling you to select a specific point in time for the restoration operation and monitor its progress.


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