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    Data Management:Create a backup schedule

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    Data Management:Create a backup schedule

    Last Updated:Feb 28, 2026

    A backup schedule in Data Disaster Recovery automatically backs up a database instance on a recurring basis. Each schedule is tied to one database instance and one backup method. This topic walks through creating a subscription backup schedule in the Data Management (DMS) console. You can also call API operations to create a backup schedule.

    Note

    Only subscription backup schedules can be created in the DMS console. Pay-as-you-go backup schedules are not supported. However, the data archiving feature in DMS automatically creates a pay-as-you-go backup schedule and charges based on the amount of data backed up. For details, see Backup fees.

    Prerequisites

    Before you begin, make sure that you have:

    • An Alibaba Cloud account with access to the DMS console V5.0

    • A database instance to back up (ApsaraDB RDS, PolarDB, self-managed, or other supported database types)

    • Sufficient permissions to purchase and configure backup schedules

    Choose a backup method

    Select a backup method before you start. The backup method cannot be changed after purchase.

    DimensionPhysical backupLogical backup
    Supported sourcesSelf-managed databases only (not ApsaraDB RDS)ApsaraDB RDS instances, self-managed databases in data centers, self-managed databases on Elastic Compute Service (ECS) instances
    What it backs upDatabase files at the OS levelDatabase objects: tables, indexes, and stored procedures
    Backup granularityEntire database instanceFine-grained (specific databases and tables)
    SpeedFaster backup and restorationSlower than physical backup
    Disaster recoverySupports sandbox instances for emergency recoveryNot available

    For more details, see Select a backup method and Logical backup, physical backup, and snapshot.

    Procedure

    1. Log on to the DMS console V5.0.

    2. In the top navigation bar, choose Security and Disaster Recovery (former DBS) > Data Disaster Recovery (DBS) > Backup Plan.

      Note

      If the DMS console is in simple mode, click the icon icon in the upper-left corner and choose All Features > Security and Disaster Recovery (former DBS) > Data Disaster Recovery (DBS) > Backup Plan.

    3. On the Backup Schedules page, click Create Schedule in the upper-right corner.

    4. Configure the parameters described in the following table, then click Buy Now in the lower-right corner.

      Important

      If the databases or tables to back up have unreasonable table schemas, large tables, or large fields, a low-specification tier may not have enough resources to complete the backup. Select a higher specification tier to avoid backup failures.

      ParameterDescription
      Product TypeThe type of product to purchase. Select Backup Schedules to create a backup schedule. Only subscription billing is available in the DMS console.
      RegionThe region where the backup instance is deployed. Select the region based on where you want to store backup data. To back up data within the same region as the source database, select the same region. To enable geo-redundancy for stronger disaster recovery, select a different region. Geo-redundancy may incur additional fees. For example, to back up a database in the China (Beijing) region to the China (Shanghai) region, select China (Shanghai).
      Data Source TypeThe database engine of the source database. For ApsaraDB RDS for MySQL, self-managed MySQL, or PolarDB for MySQL, select MySQL. For a full list of supported types, see Supported database types and features.
      SpecificationThe performance tier for backup and restoration. Physical backup supports five tiers: micro, small, medium, large, and xlarge. Logical backup supports seven tiers: micro, small, medium, large, xlarge, 2xlarge, and 4xlarge. The xlarge and higher tiers have no upper limit on backup data volume. For production databases, select xlarge or large for fast backup and restoration. For non-critical workloads, select a lower tier based on your needs. See Select the backup method and backup schedule specifications.
      Backup MethodPhysical Backup or Logical Backup. See the comparison table above. This setting cannot be changed after purchase.
      Storage SizeNo storage capacity needs to be specified at purchase. Storage is billed based on actual usage. For large backup volumes, purchase a storage plan to offset storage fees for built-in storage. For billing details, see Billing FAQ.
      Resource GroupThe resource group for the backup schedule. Select the default resource group or a custom one.
      QuantityThe number of backup schedules to purchase. Each schedule backs up only one database instance of one database type. To back up multiple instances or different database types, purchase separate schedules.
      Subscription DurationThe subscription period for the backup schedule.

    5. On the Confirm Order page, review the order details, accept the terms of service, and click Pay.

    After payment completes, the new backup schedule appears on the Backup Schedules page.

    FAQ

    Do I need a storage plan?

    It depends on where backup data is stored. If the backup uses the built-in storage pool of Data Disaster Recovery, a storage plan offsets the storage fees and is more cost-effective than pay-as-you-go pricing. Higher-tier plans offer larger discounts. See Use storage plans.

    If the backup is configured to write to an Object Storage Service (OSS) bucket or a self-managed NAS file system, no storage plan is needed because no built-in storage fees apply.

    Do I need a network plan?

    Only if geo-redundancy is enabled through the ApsaraDB RDS console. Cross-region backup generates network traffic fees billed on a pay-as-you-go basis, and a network plan offsets those fees at a lower rate. Higher-tier plans offer larger discounts. See Use network plans.

    If the backup source is an ApsaraDB RDS instance, a self-managed database on ECS, a self-managed database in a data center, or a database on a third-party cloud, no network traffic fees are charged by Data Disaster Recovery. The data transfer occurs over the Internet or through Express Connect, VPN Gateway, or Smart Access Gateway (SAG) that you configure. No network plan is needed.

    Can I change the backup method after purchase?

    No. The backup method (physical or logical) is locked at purchase. To switch methods, purchase a new backup schedule with the desired method.

    Does backup affect database performance?

    Yes. Running a backup task consumes database resources. Schedule backups during off-peak hours to minimize impact. For more information, see What is the impact of backup on databases?

    References