Simple Invoices

    Database Backup

    The Database Backup page provides two export formats for backing up your Simple Invoices data.

    SQL Backup

    Full database dump for the current database type (MySQL, PostgreSQL, or SQLite).

    • Download: Saves a .sql file to your computer
    • View SQL: Opens a modal with syntax-highlighted SQL you can copy or download
    • Includes: All tables, data, indexes, and constraints

    SQL backups are best for regular backups and restoring to the same database type.

    JSON Export

    Cross-database data export in a database-independent format.

    • Download JSON: Saves a .json file with all your data
    • View JSON: Opens a modal with syntax-highlighted JSON you can copy or download

    JSON exports are best for migrating between database types (MySQL → PostgreSQL, etc.). The format can be imported on any supported database.

    How to Use

    1. Go to Settings → Backup Database
    2. For SQL backup: click Download Backup or View SQL to preview
    3. For JSON export: click Download JSON or View JSON to preview
    4. Store downloaded files securely off-server

    Restoring from a Backup

    SQL backup restore:

    Via database management tool (phpMyAdmin, Adminer):

    • Import the .sql file

    Via command line:

    mysql -u username -p database_name < backup.sql

    JSON backup restore:

    • Use the Import tool under Settings → Options

    Best Practices

    • Schedule regular SQL backups
    • Use JSON exports before migrating databases
    • Store backups off-server
    • Test restores periodically
    • Keep multiple backup versions, not just the latest