Backing up your Salesforce data with the data export tool

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Use the Data Export tool to backup your entire Salesforce.com instance or just certain objects in your database. You can also use the Data Loader to back up your instance, but one of the better features of the Data Export Tool is that it allows you to back up your documents and attachments.

The Data export tool can be found by going to Setup > Administration Setup > Data Management > Data Export or by typing “Data Export” in the Quick Find.

You have the option to Export your data now or schedule it to run once a month. Please note you can only use the data export tool manually for weekly exporting every 6 days. Once the backup is completed, you have 48 hours to download the zip file containing your files.

The Export tool lets you archive your images, documents, attachments, chatter files, CRM content document versions and your database tables.

Take note that some of these objects have related tables that you may also need. For example, if you are backing up your Campaign Members data, you should also consider backing up leads, contacts, campaigns, and any other important related objects in your instance.

Then click on the “Start Export” button to start compressing the zip folder of your records. You can then download the file once it’s ready.

Archiving your data will provide you with security and peace of mind.