5 Common SQL Database Issues and Their Solutions

SQL databases power many businesses, but they come with challenges that can disrupt operations. Here are five frequent SQL database issues and how to solve them:

1. Slow Performance: Caused by inefficient queries, missing indexes, or outdated statistics. Fix this by optimizing queries, updating statistics, and using monitoring tools to identify bottlenecks.
2. Data Corruption: Often stems from hardware failures or power outages. Prevent this with hardware monitoring, proper backups, and regular updates.
3. Poor Query Design: Issues like SELECT * or unnecessary joins slow things down. Write efficient, targeted queries and avoid common pitfalls like leading wildcards.
4. Connection Problems: Network or configuration issues can block access. Check server status, connection strings, and firewall settings to resolve this.
5. Failed Backups: Misconfigurations or storage issues can make backups unreliable. Use automated backups, test restores, and follow the 3-2-1 rule for data safety.

Quick Tip: Regular monitoring, optimized queries, and a solid backup plan can save time, money, and headaches. These practices ensure your database runs smoothly and supports your business needs.

The Top 5 Common Problems With SQL Server (And How to Fix Them)

Slow Database Performance

Dealing with slow database queries can be a headache for both users and businesses. Long query times lead to frustrated customers and lost revenue. Common culprits include inefficient queries, missing indexes, and outdated statistics.

Even if your system seems to be running smoothly, routine optimizations can still make a difference. Studies show that even well-functioning workloads can see query times reduced by 10%–30% with proper tuning. That translates to happier users and lower server costs.

Finding Performance Problems

Identifying database bottlenecks requires a focused approach and the right tools. Start by monitoring three key metrics: execution time, CPU time, and logical reads. These metrics can help pinpoint where performance issues are lurking.

Query execution plans are your best friend when diagnosing slow queries. They can reveal if your database is doing full table scans instead of leveraging indexes or if joins are being executed inefficiently. Additionally, database logs provide valuable insights into resource-heavy operations.

Pay close attention to I/O waits. If you consistently see delays exceeding 10–15 milliseconds, it’s a red flag. In such cases, dive deeper by checking CPU, memory, and disk I/O during query execution.

Another common issue is blocking chains. When one query locks resources that another query needs, it can cause a domino effect of slowdowns. Tools like SQL Server Profiler or Extended Events are helpful for identifying these blocking scenarios.

Here’s a quick breakdown of common performance issues and how to identify them:

Category	Cause	Identification Method
Inefficient Queries	Poorly written SQL, missing joins	Analyze execution plans, use SQL tuning tools
Indexing Problems	Missing or fragmented indexes	Review and optimize indexes with monitoring tools
Resource Contention	Blocking and deadlocks	Detect blocking chains using profiler tools
Outdated Statistics	Statistics not updated	Check the last refresh date for statistics

Once you’ve identified the bottlenecks, the next step is to fine-tune your queries and indexes.

Improving Queries and Indexes

Optimizing queries and how they interact with indexes is one of the quickest ways to boost database performance. Without proper indexing, your database may resort to unnecessary full table scans, which can significantly slow things down.

A simple but effective tip: avoid using SELECT *. Instead, specify only the columns you actually need. This reduces the amount of data transferred and speeds up query response times.

Focus your indexing efforts on columns frequently used in WHERE, JOIN, or ORDER BY clauses. For queries that filter on multiple columns, composite indexes can often outperform individual single-column indexes. However, be cautious - over-indexing can hurt performance just as much as under-indexing. Stick to indexing columns that are queried often.

Be mindful of LIKE clauses. Using leading wildcards (e.g., WHERE column LIKE '%value') prevents indexes from working, forcing full table scans. Whenever possible, use trailing wildcards instead, like WHERE column LIKE 'value%'.

"Indexes are the silent partners in SQL, working behind the scenes to make queries sing." - Kishan Modasiya

Don’t forget to regularly rebuild or reorganize fragmented indexes and update statistics. Even with proper indexing, outdated statistics can mislead the query optimizer into choosing inefficient execution plans.

When working with joins, aim to use inner joins over outer joins whenever possible. Also, ensure that the columns used in joins are properly indexed. These adjustments can turn a query that takes minutes into one that runs in seconds.

Using Performance Monitoring Tools

Real-time monitoring is crucial for catching performance issues before they spiral out of control. Considering that downtime can cost businesses an average of $9,000 per minute, proactive monitoring is a worthwhile investment.

Modern query performance monitoring (QPM) tools focus specifically on the SQL layer. They capture details like execution plans, wait events, and lock contention, making it easier to pinpoint the root causes of slowdowns. This targeted approach is far more effective than traditional monitoring, which only tracks CPU, memory, and disk usage.

The good news? Most modern monitoring agents add only 1%–3% CPU overhead. Start by deploying these tools on your most critical services, and gradually expand coverage as needed.

When setting up monitoring, establish baselines for normal query latencies and define service level objectives (SLOs). This helps you identify anomalies early and address them before they escalate.

Platforms like newdb.io offer integrated tools for performance monitoring and query optimization, so you don’t have to juggle multiple systems. Their visual data editor makes troubleshooting slow queries straightforward, reducing the time between detection and resolution.

For teams new to performance monitoring, start small. Enable sampling or use lightweight agents to minimize the impact on production systems. As your team gains experience, you can increase monitoring granularity and integrate alerts into your chat-ops workflow to speed up incident response.

A well-implemented monitoring setup not only resolves current issues but also sets the stage for tackling other SQL challenges effectively.

Data Corruption and Loss

Data corruption can bring operations to a grinding halt without warning. Unlike performance issues that may gradually worsen, corruption often strikes suddenly, leaving your database unusable. Microsoft case studies reveal that 99% of SQL Server data corruption originates from the I/O stack, making it difficult to predict.

The usual suspects behind data corruption include hardware failures, software glitches, human errors, power outages, and malware attacks.

"You can't prevent storage corruption. That's regardless of the operating system or the database management system... Mitigate the risk." - Grant Fritchey, Author of SQL Server Query Performance Tuning

While corruption may be unavoidable, the key lies in reducing its impact. By focusing on prevention and having reliable recovery systems in place, you can safeguard your operations. Let’s dive into strategies to tackle corruption before it disrupts your database.

Stopping Data Corruption

Although you can't eliminate corruption entirely, proactive measures can dramatically lower the risk. Start by keeping a close eye on your hardware, particularly your storage systems.

Hardware monitoring is crucial. Regularly check for signs of wear and tear, such as unusual read/write errors, slower response times, or warnings from SMART diagnostics.

Equally important is ensuring that your database management system (DBMS) and related software are always up-to-date. Outdated systems are more vulnerable to bugs and crashes, especially during stressful conditions like unexpected shutdowns.

Running out of disk space can also lead to data corruption. When databases can't complete write operations due to insufficient space, data may be left in an inconsistent state. To avoid this, set up automated alerts when disk usage exceeds 80%, and always maintain extra space for data growth and temporary operations.

Power-related corruption is another preventable issue. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems and proper shutdown protocols can protect your database during outages.

Here’s a quick look at common causes of corruption and how to address them:

Cause of Corruption	Prevention Method
Hard Drive Failures	Monitor hardware health continuously
Software Glitches	Keep DBMS and software updated
Human Errors	Use strict access controls and permissions
Power Outages	Install UPS systems and follow proper shutdown procedures
Malware Attacks	Implement robust cybersecurity measures, including regular scans and updates

Limiting user access is another effective way to prevent accidental corruption. Only allow experienced personnel to make structural changes to your database. This reduces the risk of errors caused by users who may not fully understand the consequences of their actions.

Setting Up Reliable Backups

No prevention strategy is complete without a solid backup plan. Backups act as your safety net, so make sure they are reliable and rigorously tested.

Start by defining your Recovery Objectives. Your Recovery Point Objective (RPO) determines how much data you can afford to lose, while your Recovery Time Objective (RTO) defines how quickly you need to restore operations. These factors will guide whether you need frequent transaction log backups or can manage with daily full backups.

Automation is your ally here. Automated backup schedules reduce the chance of human error and ensure consistency. Depending on your RPO, set up a mix of full, differential, and transaction log backups.

Geographic distribution of backups is another critical step. Store backups locally for quick access and in the cloud for disaster recovery. Following the 3-2-1 rule - three copies of your data, two on different media types, and one stored off-site - provides an added layer of security.

"Backing up is the only way to protect your data." - Microsoft Learn

To ensure your backups are usable, verify them with SQL Server's BACKUP CHECKSUM feature to detect corruption. Regularly restore backups in a test environment to confirm they work when needed.

"You do not have a restore strategy until you have tested your backups." - Microsoft Learn

Tools like newdb.io simplify the backup process by offering automated scheduling, verification, and cloud storage integration. These solutions eliminate the complexity of managing multiple backup types and ensure your data stays protected.

Lastly, always encrypt and compress your backups. Encryption secures sensitive data, while compression reduces storage costs and speeds up the backup process.

Handling Constraints and Transactions

Even with robust backups and preventive measures, maintaining data integrity relies on effective transaction management and database constraints.

Transaction monitoring is vital for spotting incomplete or long-running transactions that could cause inconsistencies. Use tools like DBCC OPENTRAN or the sys.dm_tran_active_transactions view to identify problematic transactions. Newer tools, such as Devart's dbForge SQL Complete add-in for SSMS, now include visual notifications for open transactions, making it easier to address them promptly.

Error handling within transactions is equally important. Use TRY...CATCH blocks alongside the XACT_STATE() function to determine whether to commit or roll back a transaction. Enabling XACT_ABORT ON ensures that any errors during a transaction result in a full rollback, preventing partial commits and preserving data consistency.

Savepoints offer more granular control, allowing you to undo specific changes within a transaction without discarding the entire operation.

Additionally, monitor transaction logs. Check the log_reuse_wait and log_reuse_wait_desc columns in the sys.databases view to identify issues preventing log truncation. Open transactions that block truncation can lead to disk space problems and, ultimately, corruption.

Finally, pay attention to constraint violations. While constraints are designed to block invalid data, frequent violations often signal deeper application issues that need immediate attention to avoid larger problems down the line.

Poor Query Design

Poorly designed queries are like silent saboteurs, gradually eroding database performance without drawing attention. Unlike hardware failures or data corruption, which often come with clear error messages, inefficient queries can go unnoticed until users start complaining about slow response times.

Here’s a striking example: one optimized query slashed daily data consumption from a staggering 10–14 terabytes to under 1 millisecond by using just 33 data pages. This highlights how critical efficient query design is for maintaining responsive, reliable databases.

Common Query Design Mistakes

Many query design issues stem from prioritizing functionality over efficiency. For instance, using SELECT * retrieves unnecessary data, placing an extra load on the database.

Another common pitfall is copying existing queries with only minor tweaks. This approach often results in bloated queries that fetch far more data than needed. While this might not be an issue for small datasets, it quickly becomes a performance bottleneck as the application scales. Similarly, reusing queries without proper adjustments and relying on deeply nested views can lead to inefficient, hard-to-maintain code.

Clustering on volatile columns like GUIDs is another misstep. It forces the database to constantly reorganize data. Instead, opt for more stable columns, such as dates or sequential IDs, for better performance.

When working with joins, avoid unnecessary subqueries and ensure proper join conditions. For example, use IF EXISTS instead of SELECT COUNT(ID) when checking for the existence of data.

NULL values can also trip you up. In T-SQL, concatenating strings with the + operator results in a NULL if any operand is NULL. Instead, use the CONCAT function to handle these cases:

SELECT ProductName, ProductColor, CONCAT(ProductName, '-', ProductColor) AS [Long Product Name] FROM Products

Another common issue is division by zero errors. These can be easily avoided with the NULLIF function:

SELECT ProductName, Price, (Price / NULLIF(PriceTax, 0)) * 100 AS [PriceTaxRatio] FROM Products

To improve query performance and maintainability, tailor your queries to the specific needs of your application.

Writing Queries for Specific Needs

Crafting queries for specific use cases can significantly enhance both performance and maintainability. Instead of relying on generic, one-size-fits-all queries, focus on writing queries that fetch only the data required for each feature.

For example, Walmart ensures its database remains responsive by regularly updating its statistics, keeping its inventory and pricing systems running smoothly. Similarly, Uber avoids nested queries in its real-time dispatch system, opting for JOINs instead, which helps match drivers and riders efficiently - even during peak times.

When writing queries, avoid wildcards. Specify only the columns you need to reduce network traffic and allow the database to make better use of covering indexes. For paginated results, use proper LIMIT and OFFSET clauses to prevent overwhelming your system with massive datasets.

Choosing the right data types can also reduce processing overhead. Offloading complex calculations to the application layer instead of the query can further speed up response times. Additionally, always include an ORDER BY clause when using LIMIT to ensure consistent results across executions.

Working with Developer Tools

Modern tools make query optimization more accessible and can catch common mistakes before they hit production. Features like syntax highlighting can help spot typos and syntax errors early on.

Database-specific tools like MySQL Workbench and SQL Server Management Studio come with built-in query analyzers. These analyzers review execution plans, flag costly operations, and suggest optimizations. Third-party monitoring tools also provide valuable insights by tracking execution times and identifying resource-intensive queries in production.

Platforms like newdb.io enhance query development by integrating seamlessly with ORMs like Prisma. Its visual data editor allows developers to explore table relationships, leading to smarter query design. Additionally, its performance monitoring tools provide real-time feedback on query execution, helping developers spot bottlenecks before they impact users. With automated backups and global distribution, newdb.io ensures consistent query performance across regions.

Regularly monitoring performance metrics is essential for catching slow queries and resource bottlenecks before they escalate. Organizations that leverage real-time analytics are 23 times more likely to acquire customers, 6 times more likely to retain them, and 19 times more likely to be profitable. And here’s a stark reminder of why query optimization matters: a 100-millisecond delay in website load time can slash conversion rates by 7%. Query optimization isn’t just a technical necessity - it’s a business priority that complements broader performance strategies like tuning and backups.

sbb-itb-687e821

Database Connection Problems

Connection failures can bring applications to a grinding halt, disrupt transactions, and leave users staring at frustrating error messages. Unlike performance issues, which often develop gradually, connection problems tend to appear out of nowhere, cutting off access to your data entirely.

"This error indicates a failed attempt by your website or application to connect to the designated database." – Ochuko Onojakpor, DBVISUALIZER

Quick diagnosis and resolution are essential to keep your database running smoothly. Below, we’ll walk through practical steps to identify and resolve these issues.

Finding Connection Issues

The first step to solving connection problems is identifying their source. Error messages like "A network-related or instance-specific error occurred" tell you there’s a problem, but they don’t explain what’s causing it.

Start by checking if your database server is operational. Unexpected crashes or maintenance could be the culprit. For SQL Server, ensure the SQL Server Browser service is running - this is particularly important for named instances that don’t use the default port.

Next, test your network connectivity. Use tools like ping to see if your application can reach the database server. If ping fails, the issue likely lies within your network setup rather than the database itself. To dig deeper, use telnet to test specific ports, such as port 1433, which is SQL Server's default TCP/IP port.

Another common issue is an incorrect connection string. Double-check that your connection string is accurate (e.g., Server=myServerAddress;Database=myDataBase;User Id=myUsername;Password=myPassword;). Also, confirm that your credentials are valid, passwords are up to date, and the account has the necessary permissions to access the database.

Cloud databases like Azure SQL Database add an extra layer of complexity due to transient faults. Azure's infrastructure can dynamically reconfigure servers, causing brief connection disruptions that typically resolve themselves within a minute. Keep an eye on the Azure Service Dashboard for any regional outages that might be affecting your database.

Resource limitations can also block connections. If your database is nearing its maximum connection or resource capacity, new connection attempts may fail. Use tools like sys.resource_stats to monitor resource usage and spot bottlenecks.

Once you’ve identified the root cause, adjust your firewall and network settings to restore access.

Configuring Firewall and Network Settings

Firewall restrictions are a major cause of connection failures. In fact, network-related issues account for up to 70% of database performance problems. Proper firewall configuration is key to ensuring reliable access.

For SQL Server, enable remote connections and activate the TCP/IP protocol using SQL Server Configuration Manager. Make sure the necessary ports are open in your firewall settings. By default, SQL Server uses port 1433 for TCP/IP connections, but custom installations may use other ports. Adjust your firewall to allow traffic on these specific ports, and don’t forget to configure both inbound and outbound rules as needed.

Set your connection timeout to at least 30 seconds to avoid unnecessary failures. This is especially important for applications connecting over slower networks or during high traffic periods.

For cloud database connections, implement retry logic with exponential backoff. Start with a 5-second delay, and gradually increase to 60 seconds for subsequent retries. This approach helps handle temporary network glitches without overwhelming the database with repeated connection attempts.

Regularly assess your network setup. Monitor performance metrics and review firewall rules periodically to ensure they aren’t unintentionally blocking legitimate database traffic.

Reducing Issues with Global Access

For applications serving users worldwide, database connectivity can face additional hurdles. Latency, regional outages, and uneven network quality can all impact the user experience.

One effective solution is distributing database resources across multiple regions. By allowing users to connect to the nearest server, you can reduce latency and improve reliability. Connection pooling also helps by reusing existing connections, while redundancy setups can reroute traffic during regional disruptions.

Platforms like newdb.io are designed to tackle these global challenges. With built-in global distribution and streamlined connection management, newdb.io ensures consistent performance no matter where users are located. Its automated failover capabilities keep connections stable even during regional outages, and a simplified client interface reduces common mistakes like connection string errors. Additional features like integrated monitoring and automated backups further enhance reliability.

Tracking connection patterns across regions is essential for spotting potential problems early. Monitor success rates, response times, and error trends by location to identify emerging issues before they affect users.

Finally, don’t overlook the importance of keeping your database drivers and connection libraries updated. Outdated libraries are responsible for 70% of production issues. Regular updates can fix bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, and improve connection stability - critical for global applications dealing with diverse network conditions.

Addressing these challenges head-on is key to delivering the seamless data access that modern businesses rely on.

Failed Backups and Restores

When backups and restores fail, the consequences can be severe - data loss, downtime, and disrupted operations. A solid backup strategy is your safety net when your primary database fails, but it’s only effective if it works as intended. Ensuring backups are reliable and restores are seamless is critical to keeping your business running smoothly during emergencies.

Avoiding Backup Failures

Backup failures are often caused by issues like incorrect configurations, missing file paths, or unverified processes. Common problems include media failures, human mistakes, software glitches, cyberattacks, and infrastructure breakdowns. Technical challenges, such as insufficient storage space, network errors, or lack of proper permissions, can also derail backups.

One effective safeguard is the 3-2-1 rule: keep 3 copies of your data, store them on 2 different media types, and ensure 1 copy is offsite. This helps protect against localized risks like hardware failures or natural disasters.

Backup expert Rick Cook highlights the importance of validation and testing:

"Backups are useless if they're damaged or nobody knows how to restore them properly. Use validation to verify that backup files are complete and intact. Use periodic testing to practice and train administrators on proper restoration processes."

To prevent storage-related issues, monitor disk space and database sizes regularly. Implement cleanup measures to remove outdated backups that could fill up storage. Also, ensure the SQL Server Service account has the necessary Read and Write permissions for the backup folder.

For successful log backups, set the database recovery model to FULL or BULK_LOGGED. Be cautious of software conflicts - using Veritas Backup Exec alongside other backup tools may reset the Log Sequence Number (LSN) for SQL, leading to failed differential or log backups. Avoid overlapping backup processes to prevent such conflicts.

Another useful tip: enable the Backup CHECKSUM option during backups to detect and avoid saving corrupted data.

Once backup issues are under control, the focus shifts to addressing potential restore failures.

Fixing Restore Issues

Restore failures during critical times can be stressful, but identifying the problem quickly is the first step to resolving it.

A common issue is a database stuck in a restoring state, often caused by incomplete restore processes or missing transaction logs. Double-check the restore command syntax and ensure transaction logs are applied in the right sequence.

Sometimes, mismatched configurations between the source and target environments can block restores. Differences in database versions, collation settings, or feature compatibility may cause failures. Always verify that the target system meets the requirements of your backup files.

Another frequent obstacle is insufficient disk space on the target server. Before starting a restore, confirm that there’s enough space for the database, transaction logs, and any temporary files.

Permission problems can also disrupt restores. The account performing the operation must have the appropriate access rights to both the backup files and the target database location. Verify these permissions ahead of time to avoid delays.

As database expert Kin Shah puts it:

"As a side note, it’s more important to test your restore strategy as a backup is ONLY GOOD if it can be restored without any issues."

This advice underscores the need for regular testing. Schedule restore tests in a non-production environment to ensure your backups work when it matters most.

Automating these processes can help reduce human error and improve consistency.

Automated Backup Solutions

Relying on manual backups introduces risks and doesn’t scale well. Automated backups, on the other hand, provide greater reliability and efficiency.

When setting up automated backups, choose tools that integrate seamlessly with SQL Server. Configure schedules based on how critical your data is and how much data loss is acceptable. For maximum safety, consider daily full backups that capture all database files.

Define retention periods for different types of backups, balancing compliance requirements with your need for historical data access. Encrypt backups both in storage and during transfer using robust encryption standards to guard against security threats.

To catch issues early, monitor backup logs regularly and set up alerts for failures or anomalies. Platforms like newdb.io simplify these tasks with features like automatic backups and instant database creation, letting you test restore procedures without affecting your live systems.

Finally, store backups in separate physical locations from your main database files. This ensures data safety even if your primary infrastructure is compromised. While automation reduces manual workload, it’s essential to keep your backup systems and software up to date for continued reliability. The ultimate goal is to create a system that balances availability and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion

Effectively managing SQL databases means tackling common challenges that can disrupt operations and hinder performance. While these issues can have a big impact on business continuity, they are often preventable with the right strategies and tools.

Staying ahead of potential problems involves regular monitoring, refining query practices, and testing backups consistently. This includes using built-in profiling tools, enabling query logging, keeping statistics up to date, optimizing indexes, avoiding broad SELECT * queries, applying WHERE clauses to filter data early, and reviewing indexes to ensure they align with current query patterns. Organizations that embrace these practices, combined with integrated monitoring tools, create a solid foundation for reliable and high-performing databases.

The growing use of AI-powered tools is also transforming database management. These tools enhance performance monitoring, streamline backup processes, and provide actionable insights for query optimization. For example, platforms like newdb.io deliver real-time performance tracking, automated backup management, and optimization recommendations - taking much of the guesswork out of database administration.

Automation plays a key role in improving database reliability. Automated backup solutions ensure consistency and minimize the risk of human error, while routine testing of restore processes strengthens backup strategies. Together, these measures help safeguard critical data and maintain business continuity.

In addition to performance and query management, modern database solutions also address localized needs. For U.S.-based organizations, integrated tools offer features like automated monitoring, backup, and optimization, all designed to meet local standards and compliance requirements. These solutions provide a user-friendly experience for administrators while ensuring the reliability and efficiency that businesses rely on today.

FAQs

What are the best ways to quickly identify and fix SQL database connection issues?

To tackle SQL database connection issues efficiently, start by confirming that both the SQL Server service and SQL Server Browser service are up and running - this is especially important for named instances. Then, double-check that the necessary ports are open and not being blocked by your firewall. Tools like connection tests or network monitoring can be incredibly helpful in spotting the root of the problem.

Next, take a look at your server's configuration settings to ensure everything is set up correctly. Also, verify that user permissions are properly assigned, as misconfigured permissions can often cause connection hiccups. If you're still facing issues, consider investigating potential network disruptions that might occur during connection attempts. Keeping your network well-configured and running regular diagnostics can go a long way in preventing and resolving these problems.

What are the best practices for writing efficient SQL queries to prevent performance issues?

When crafting SQL queries, a few smart practices can make a big difference in performance. Start by using proper indexing - indexes help speed up data retrieval, making your queries run faster. Also, be specific about what you need: instead of using SELECT *, choose only the columns you actually require. This reduces the amount of data processed and improves efficiency.

For JOIN operations, ensure the columns you're joining on are indexed, and skip any joins that aren't absolutely necessary. Another tip? Cut down on subqueries. Instead, consider using WITH clauses (common table expressions) or temporary tables to simplify and streamline your queries.

Finally, always take a look at your query's execution plan. It’s like a roadmap that shows how your query is being executed, helping you spot and fix any bottlenecks. These small adjustments can go a long way in boosting database performance and keeping things running smoothly.

How can I make sure my SQL database backups are dependable and easy to restore?

To make sure your SQL database backups are dependable and ready for recovery, stick to these essential practices:

• Set up a backup schedule that works for your needs. A good starting point is weekly full backups, daily differential backups, and frequent transaction log backups. Adjust this based on your recovery time (RTO) and recovery point objectives (RPO).
• Follow the 3-2-1 backup rule: keep three copies of your data, store them on two different types of storage media, and make sure at least one copy is kept offsite. This adds an extra layer of protection against data loss.
• Test your backups often by running restore drills. This helps confirm that your backups are complete and can be restored without issues when needed.

On top of that, store backups on separate storage systems, choose the right recovery model for your database, and schedule your backups during off-peak hours to reduce the impact on performance. These steps will help secure your data and ensure a smooth recovery process whenever it's necessary.