Backup Checksum Default

This instance does not have backup checksum default set to true. Setting backup checksum default to true enables SQL Server to use checksums to ensure data integrity during backup and restore operations. Backup checksums are an extra measure to ensure that backups are valid and restores are healthy.

Why Backup Checksums Are Important

• Data Integrity: Backup checksums ensure the accuracy of the backup data, detecting any corruption during the backup or restore process.
• Early Detection of Issues: If corruption is detected during a backup, you will be alerted immediately, allowing you to take corrective action before relying on the backup for recovery.
• Safer Restores: By using checksums, the integrity of data is validated during the restore, ensuring the backup file has not been compromised.

Suggested Action

Set backup checksum default to true so that SQL Server automatically verifies backup data integrity.

How to Configure Backup Checksum Default for All Databases

To configure the backup checksum default for all databases, run the following command:

EXEC sys.sp_configure N'backup checksum default', N'1';
RECONFIGURE;
GO

How to Perform a Single Backup and Restore With Backup Checksum

If you prefer to enable checksums for a single backup or restore operation, you can use the following commands:

-- Backup with checksum
BACKUP DATABASE [WhippetWorks]
TO DISK = N'Z:\Backups\WhippetWorks.bak'
WITH CHECKSUM;
GO

-- Restore with checksum
RESTORE DATABASE [WhippetWorks]
FROM DISK = N'Z:\Backups\WhippetWorks.bak'
WITH CHECKSUM;
GO

How Aireforge Detects Backup Checksum Settings

Aireforge checks whether backup checksum default is enabled on SQL Server instances. If this setting is disabled, Aireforge will flag it as a potential data integrity risk, providing recommendations to enable the setting using the SQL commands provided.