1. Download and Install

To use NodeSqurirrel, you need Backup and Migrate and NodeSqurrel running on your Drupal site. Both are available for Drupal 6 and Drupal 7.

Backup and Migrate: http://drupal.org/project/backup_migrate

NodeSquirrel Client: http://drupal.org/project/nodesquirrel

2. Try a Test Backup

Try backing up your site's database to your local computer using Backup and Migrate.

Drupal 6 users go to:
Administration > Content  Management > Backup and Migrate

Drupal 7 users go to:
Configuration > System > Backup and Migrate

Do a "Quick Backup"
Make sure the "Quick Backup" settings read—"Backup from 'Default Database' to 'Download' using 'Default settings'." 

Click “Backup Now”.

Issues with Your Backup?

A backup file of your database should download to your desktop. If this does not work, you will not be able to use NodeSquirrel. Review the Backup and Migrate documentation and, if necessary file a support request at http://drupal.org/project/issues/backup_migrate

3. Create a NodeSquirrel.com destination

Once you have confirmed that Backup and Migrate is working correctly, create a NodeSquirrel destination on your site. This is where your backups will go. 

Add a New Destination
From your site's Backup and Migrate page (see step 2), click the “Destinations” tab.

Click on “Add a Destination” (in Drupal 7) or "Create a new destination" (in Drupal 6) then click “NodeSquirrel.com” from the list of options.

If you do not see the "NodeSquirrel.com" option, make sure the NodeSquirrel module is installed and enabled.

4. Retrieve & Enter Your Secret Key

Generate Your Secret Key
From the Node Squirrel Destination page (see step 3), click "nodesquirrel.com/activate" under "Need a Secret Key?".

Follow the steps to generate your secret key.

Enter Your Secret Key
Once you have Your Secret Key, enter it directly directly into Backup and Migrate.

Then, click "Save."

Congratulations! You can now start backups to NodeSquirrel.

Your secret key enables your site—and only your site—to send backups to your NodeSquirrel.com account. Do not share this key with anybody, and do not use the same secret key on more than one site.

5. Backup to NodeSquirrel

Now that your NodeSquirrel account has been created and your site is set up, you can send your backups to NodeSquirrel.com.

Go back to Backup and Migrate > Backup.

Change your "Quick Backup" settings to read—"Backup from 'Default Database' to 'NodeSquirrel' using 'Default settings'."

Click “Backup Now”. You should receive a confirmation message that your backup worked.

6. Verify Your Backup

To confirm that your backup arrived safely, visit

http://manage.nodesquirrel.com/

Is your file there? Then, rest easy! Your backups are now stored safely in the cloud.

Verify the backup file itself by downloading it and restoring it to a local or stage copy of your site using Backup and Migrate's restore feature. If the restore works, then pour yourself a glass or mug of your favorite beverage. You've earned it!

Questions or Problems?

If you have any problems please contact us at support@nodesquirrel.com