What are the different types of backups that can be created using SQL Server Management Studio?

2 Differential backups

A differential backup is a type of backup that only copies the data that has changed since the last full backup. A differential backup is smaller and faster than a full backup, but it still provides a complete picture of your database at the time of the backup. A differential backup can be used to restore your database to a specific point in time, as long as you have the corresponding full backup and the transaction log backups. You can create a differential backup using SSMS by selecting the Differential option in the Backup Type drop-down list.

3 Transaction log backups

A transaction log backup is a type of backup that only copies the transaction log records that have been generated since the last backup. A transaction log backup is the smallest and the fastest type of backup, but it also requires the most frequent backups to avoid filling up the transaction log. A transaction log backup can be used to restore your database to any point in time, as long as you have a full backup and all the subsequent transaction log backups. You can create a transaction log backup using SSMS by selecting the Transaction Log option in the Backup Type drop-down list.

4 Copy-only backups

A copy-only backup is a special type of backup that does not affect the normal backup sequence. A copy-only backup can be either a full, a differential, or a transaction log backup, but it does not reset the differential base or the log sequence number. A copy-only backup can be useful for testing, archiving, or transferring your database without interfering with your regular backup strategy. You can create a copy-only backup using SSMS by checking the Copy-only backup option in the Options page.

5 File and filegroup backups

A file and filegroup backup is a type of backup that only copies a subset of files or filegroups within your database. A file and filegroup backup can be useful for large or complex databases that are divided into multiple files or filegroups for performance or availability reasons. A file and filegroup backup can reduce the size and time of a backup, but it also requires more planning and management to ensure a consistent and complete backup and restore. You can create a file and filegroup backup using SSMS by selecting the Files and filegroups option in the Backup component drop-down list.