# Configuring application-aware backups for VMs

Application-aware backups for VMs capture application-consistent recovery points by quiescing supported applications before backup and using credentials to access the guest OS and application. Application-aware backups are typically the recommended option for protecting applications in VMs.

## Workflow

- Create VM groups based on application requirements to effectively manage VMs with different backup or recovery needs.

- In the VM groups, enable application-aware backups and provide credentials for guest operating system and application access.

- Run a backup and verify that the application data is available for restore.

## How application-aware backups work

Application-aware backups place supported applications in a stable state before the backup runs.

- The application is quiesced before backup.

- In-memory and transactional data are captured in a consistent state.

- The resulting recovery point supports more reliable application recovery.

## VM-specific considerations

- Restore behavior: Application restores are performed from the application interface, not from the VM group.

- Grouping guidance: Use separate VM groups when applications need different backup schedules, recovery points, or restore workflows.

- Recovery use: Application-aware backups are commonly used for workloads that need consistent recovery for application data, such as databases and directory services.

## Related information

Virtual machine backup types

×

Loading...