# Creating a database backup

> This article shows some sample steps that can be used to create a database backup for all vendors

URL: https://www.hannonhill.com/cascadecms/latest/articles/cascade-administration/installation-and-upgrades/database/db-backup.html
category: Cascade Administration
article-type: how-to
content-kind: article
release-availability: all
tags: installation, database
updated: 2026-10-06

## MySQL

Execute a command similar to the following to create a database dump:

```xml
mysqldump -u root -p -e --default-character-set=utf8mb3 --add-drop-table cascade > cascade_backup.sql
```

> **Note**
>
> The example above assumes that the database name is `cascade`.

## SQL Server

SQL Server users should follow these instructions for creating a database dump in SQL Server Management Studio:

1. Right-click on the Cascade CMS database.
1. Select **Tasks > Back Up...**
1. On the **General** page:
    - **Backup Type**: Full
    - **Destination**: make note of the path to which the database will be dumped.
1. Click **OK**.

## Oracle

Oracle users should enter the following from a command prompt (or wherever `exp` can be executed):

```xml
expdp cascade/cascade directory=backups dumpfile=clientDATE.dmp
```

> **Note**
>
> When creating a database dump, **DO NOT** export using the system user.