> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/backups.md).

# Backups

Understand the backup responsibilities and recommended data protection areas for a Monolith on-premises deployment.

Monolith on-premises deployments do not include a built-in backup service.

Organizations running Monolith on-premises should establish and maintain a backup process appropriate for their infrastructure and recovery requirements.

### Monolith Data

Your backup strategy should include the persistent Monolith data stored by the deployment.

For deployments using the standard local storage configuration, this includes the `data` folder maintained by the Monolith server.

See [**Monolith Data**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/monolith-data.md) for additional information about the contents of this directory.

### MySQL Database

The Monolith MySQL database should also be backed up separately.

A database backup process should create recoverable copies of the Monolith database, such as regular SQL dumps or another appropriate MySQL backup method used by your organization.

If Monolith is configured to use an external MySQL database, include that database in the backup and recovery process for the externally managed environment.

See [**Using External MySQL Database**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/using-external-mysql-database.md) for additional information.

### Backup Planning

When planning backups for an on-premises Monolith environment, consider:

* Monolith persistent files and uploaded data
* The Monolith MySQL database
* Backup frequency and retention
* Where backup copies will be stored
* How backups will be protected
* How the environment will be restored if recovery is required

Your organization's backup strategy should align with its own infrastructure, security, and data retention requirements.

### Related Documentation

* [**On-Premises Deployments**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments.md)
* [**Monolith Data**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/monolith-data.md)
* [**Using External MySQL Database**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/using-external-mysql-database.md)
* [**Deployment**](/monolith/deployment-and-security/on-premises-deployments/deployment.md)