How to Back Up Active Directory in Windows

How to Backup Active Directory on Windows 2000 and 2003 Servers

1. 
   Understand what constitutes a good backup to properly plan a backup schedule. At least two domain controllers should be backed up in each domain, including one that is an operations master role holder. The backup should contain the system state and the contents of the system disk. Backups should be less than 60 days old.
2. 
   Log on to the Domain Controller locally as an administrator or a backup operator.
3. 
   Left-click on the start button. Navigate to Programs, Accessories, System Tools. Select "Backup." Click on the backup wizard button and choose "next."
4. 
   Choose "back up selected files, drives, or network data."
5. 
   Select "System State" on the screen that asks what items to back up.
6. 
   Click the plus sign next to the drive letter that contains the system files to expand the selection. Select "system disk." Click "next."
7. 
   Specify a folder or tape device to backup to in the "Where to Store the Backup" choice.
8. 
   Name the file if using file backup, or select the tape to be used if using a tape in the "Backup Media or File Name" box.
9. 
   Make sure the selection "Prompt to replace data" is included under the "How" category. If necessary, select the Advanced button and follow the prompts until reaching the Media Options screen. Choose "Replace the data on the media with this backup."
10. 
    Follow the prompts to the "finish" screen. Choose "yes" to overwrite data.