How can backups be performed in ArcGIS Enterprise?

Backups in ArcGIS Enterprise can be effectively performed through the use of both the built-in ArcGIS Enterprise backup tools and manual database backups. The ArcGIS Enterprise backup tools are specifically designed to streamline the backup process, ensuring that essential components such as server configurations, services, and GIS content are preserved accurately and can be restored when needed. Manual database backups, on the other hand, are crucial for safeguarding the underlying geodatabase and can be accomplished using standard database management practices.

Choosing to rely solely on manual database backups would not encompass the full scope of what needs to be backed up for an operational ArcGIS Enterprise environment. While third-party software can assist in backup processes, it is not the primary or most integrated method provided directly within the ArcGIS ecosystem. Additionally, exporting data to flat files may serve as a form of data export but does not equate to a complete backup solution that encompasses all aspects of the ArcGIS Enterprise system, including configurations and services. Therefore, the most comprehensive and effective approach to backing up ArcGIS Enterprise effectively includes both the native backup tools and manual database backup techniques.