How to create a backup schedule using SSMS

✅ Create a Scheduled Backup in SSMS

You will use Maintenance Plans or SQL Server Agent Jobs. The easiest method is via a Maintenance Plan (SQL Server Standard or higher).

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Method 1: Using a Maintenance Plan (Recommended)

Prerequisites

• SQL Server Agent must be running.
• You need the correct permissions (sysadmin usually).

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Step-by-Step

1. Open SSMS and connect to your SQL Server

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2. Expand:

Management
   → Maintenance Plans

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3. Right-click “Maintenance Plans” → New Maintenance Plan

Give your plan a name, such as:

Nightly Backup Plan

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4. The Maintenance Plan Designer opens

On the left, you will see Maintenance Tasks.

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5. Drag “Back Up Database Task” onto the design area

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6. Double-click the Back Up Database Task

Configure:

• Backup type: Full / Differential / Transaction Log
• Databases: select specific DBs or all user databases
• Backup location: choose your folder
• Options: verify backup, create subfolders, etc.

Click OK.

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7. Create a Schedule

In the top menu, you'll see an icon labelled Subplan Schedule…
(Or right-click the subplan on the left.)

Set your schedule:

• Daily, Weekly, Monthly
• Time (e.g., 2 AM)
• Frequency (every 1 day, etc.)

Click OK.

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8. Save the Maintenance Plan

Click Save in the toolbar.

This creates a SQL Server Agent Job behind the scenes.