The NetBackup Microsoft SQL client displays backup images in a logical hierarchy that mirrors the composition of the database. If you select a transaction log or differential image, then NetBackup examines the metadata that is stored with the images for the selected database. It then determines the most efficient recovery set. Then the agent generates a batch file that includes a sequence of scripted restores. When the scripts are executed, the database is recovered.

The individual restore operations work in a similar manner to backups. An SQL restore statement is generated and provided to SQL Server by ODBC. A VDI connection is made. Then a VxBSA session is initiated that starts the data flow between the media manager and SQL Server. NetBackup determines the number of streams (and the corresponding virtual devices and VxBSA sessions) by the number of stripes that were generated during backup.

After all of the recovery operations have completed, the NetBackup agent takes the final step that sets the database into the recovered state. The database goes back online and becomes available for use.