How to Backup Active Directory | Domain Controller On Windows 2003 Using NTBACKUP

Using NTBACKUP

1. Open NTBACKUP by either going to Run, then NTBACKUP and pressing Enter or by going to Start -> Accessories -> System Tools.
2. If you are prompted by the Backup or Restore Wizard, I suggest you un-check the "Always Start in Wizard Mode" checkbox, and click on the Advanced Mode link.



3. Inside NTBACKUP's main window, click on the Backup tab.



4. Click to select the System State checkbox. Note you cannot manually select components of the System State backup. It's all or nothing.
5. Enter a backup path for the BKF file. If you're using a tape device, make sure NTBACKUP is aware and properly configured to use it.



6. Press Start Backup.
7. The Backup Job Information pops out, allowing you to configure a scheduled backup job and other settings. For the System State backup, do not change any of the other settings except the schedule, if so desired. When done, press Start Backup.



8. After a few moments of configuration tasks, NTBACKUP will begin the backup job.



9. When the backup is complete, review the output and close NTBACKUP.



Next, you need to properly label and secure the backup file/tape and if possible, store a copy of it on a remote and secure location.

Method #2: Using the Command Prompt

You can use the command line version of NTBACKUP in order to perform backups from the Command Prompt.

For example, to create a backup job named "System State Backup Job" that backs up the System State data to the file D:\system_state_backup.bkf, type: