🚀 How to Copy a SQL Server Database Using a .bacpac File (Schema + Data) || Clone DB

#Clone Database 
Need to duplicate a full SQL Server database — including tables, views, stored procedures and data — without writing complex scripts?

Let me show you a simple, reliable method: Exporting and Importing a Data-tier Application (.bacpac). It’s perfect for backups, migrations, and creating dev/test clones.

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 Step 1: Export the Source Database

1. Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).

2. Right-click your source database → Tasks → Export Data-tier Application.

3. Choose "Save to local disk", then pick a file path and name (YourDatabase.bacpac).

4. Click Next through the wizard and generate the .bacpac file.

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 Step 2: Import into Target Server

1. In SSMS, right-click Databases → Import Data-tier Application.

2. Select the .bacpac file you exported.

3. Give the new database a name.

4. Complete the wizard. 🎉 Done!

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🧩 Diagram

[ Source DB ]
     |
     |  Export as .bacpac
     ↓
[ YourFile.bacpac ]
     |
     |  Import on Target Server
     ↓
[ New DB Clone ]

 Why Use This?
🔄 Migrate databases between environments (dev, staging, prod).
🛠️ Create dev/test clones without risking production.
📦 Archive snapshots with both schema and data.