How do I backup and restore PI Data Archive?

How do I backup and restore PI Data Archive?

Regular backups are critical for PI System disaster recovery. Here's the complete backup strategy.

What to Back Up

Component	Location	Method
Archive files (.arc)	`PI\arc\`	PI Backup Subsystem
Point database	`PI\dat\`	PI Backup Subsystem
PI configuration	`PI\dat\`	PI Backup Subsystem
AF Database	SQL Server	SQL Server backup
PI trust/mapping config	PI SMT export	Manual export

PI Backup Subsystem

The recommended method for PI Data Archive backups:

Open PI SMT > Operation > Backup.
Configure backup settings:
- Destination folder (network share recommended).
- Include archives, point database, and configuration files.
Schedule automatic backups (daily recommended).

Or use the command line:

pibackup -start -path "\\BackupServer\PIBackups\%date%"

AF Database Backup

AF data lives in SQL Server — use standard SQL backup:

BACKUP DATABASE [PIFD]
TO DISK = 'E:\Backups\PIFD_backup.bak'
WITH COMPRESSION, INIT;

Recovery Procedure

Stop all PI services.
Restore archive files to the PI\arc\ directory.
Restore point database and configuration files to PI\dat\.
Register archives using piartool -ar.
Start PI services.
For AF: restore the SQL database using RESTORE DATABASE.

Best Practices

Test restores periodically — a backup is only as good as its restore.
Keep at least 3 days of backups.
Store backups off-site or in cloud storage.
Back up before any major changes (upgrades, migrations).
Monitor backup completion via PI message logs.

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