Application-aware backups for VMs capture application-consistent recovery points by quiescing supported applications before backup and using credentials to access the guest OS and application. Application-aware backups are typically the recommended option for protecting applications in VMs.
Workflow
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Create VM groups based on application requirements to effectively manage VMs with different backup or recovery needs.
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In the VM groups, enable application-aware backups and provide credentials for guest operating system and application access.
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Run a backup and verify that the application data is available for restore.
How application-aware backups work
Application-aware backups place supported applications in a stable state before the backup runs.
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The application is quiesced before backup.
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In-memory and transactional data are captured in a consistent state.
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The resulting recovery point supports more reliable application recovery.
VM-specific considerations
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Restore behavior: Application restores are performed from the application interface, not from the VM group.
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Grouping guidance: Use separate VM groups when applications need different backup schedules, recovery points, or restore workflows.
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Recovery use: Application-aware backups are commonly used for workloads that need consistent recovery for application data, such as databases and directory services.