What does copy only backup mean?

What does copy-only backup do?

A copy-only backup is a SQL Server backup that is independent of the sequence of conventional SQL Server backups. Usually, taking a backup changes the database and affects how later backups are restored.

What is the difference between copy-only and full backup?

Copy_Only backup A copy-only backup is a special type of full backup, which is independent of the conventional sequence of backups. The difference between copy-only and a full backup is that a copy-only backup doesn't become a base for the next differential backup. A full backup works on all database recovery models.

Can we restore copy-only backup?

If you only had the copy-only backup and the diff backup, you could restore the copy-only backup and you would be restored to the state at step 3, but you could not use the diff as it is relative to the missing full backup.

How do I copy-only a backup?

Create copy-only backups in SQL Server Management Studio Right click on the database that needs to be backed up, and click Tasks/Back up… in the context menu. In the General tab of Back Up Database, specify the database and backup type of the copy-only file. Make sure to check the box for Copy-only backup.