Create a MongoDB Backup¶

In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of creating a backup of your MongoDB database using the mongodump utility program. MongoDB provides various options for creating backups to ensure the safety of your data.

Using the `mongodump` Utility¶

Mongodump is a versatile tool designed for creating database backups efficiently. It allows you to capture a snapshot of your MongoDB data, which can later be restored if needed.

Step 1: Choose Your Backup Option¶

You have several options for running mongodump to create a backup. Select the one that best suits your needs.

Option 1: Backup from a Specific MongoDB Host¶

This option is suitable when you want to create a backup from a specific MongoDB host.

mongodump --host="hostname:port" \
          --username="username" --password="password" \
          --authenticationDatabase "admin" \
          --db="db name" \
          --forceTableScan -v --gzip --out {backup directory location}

Option 2: Backup Using a MongoDB URI¶

Use this option if you have a MongoDB URI that includes all the necessary connection information.

mongodump --uri="mongodb://username:password@host:port/?authSource=admin" \
          --db="db name" \
          --forceTableScan -v --gzip --out {backup directory location}

Option 3: Backup for MongoDB Atlas¶

If you are using MongoDB Atlas, you can create a backup as follows:

mongodump "mongodb+srv://{CONNECTION_STRING}" \
          --username {user_name} --db="{DATABASE}" --forceTableScan -v \
          --out {backup directory location}

Here's an example of how the command looks:

mongodump "mongodb+srv://myusername:mypassword@mycluster.mongodb.net/test" \
          --username myusername --db="mydatabase" --forceTableScan -v \
          --out /backup

Step 2: Perform the Backup¶

Execute the chosen mongodump command from your terminal. The command will connect to the MongoDB instance and create a backup of the specified database.

Step 3: Verify the Backup¶

Once the backup process is complete, you can verify its success by checking the specified backup directory.

Step 4: Compress and Download the Backup¶

To save storage space and facilitate transfer, it's a good practice to compress the backup directory. After compression, you can download the backup to your local machine or a designated storage location.