Most important: your server needs to be shut down during backup, or you will end up with an incomplete/damaged copy of the primary database file.
This is very likely what made your previous attempt fail.
Don’t forget to backup the registry branch for Plex server: https://support.plex.tv/articles/201539237-backing-up-plex-media-server-data/
Here is a script which you can use to automate the backup process: PSA: Script to back up and restore Plex app data on a Windows system
e.g. with the Windows task planner
When you restore your server or transfer it to new hardware, you want to restore all the drive letters and folder names as they were on your old machine.
So, you better note down which hard drive has which drive letter assigned to it.
Once you have all the parts noted down and backed up, it is basically:
- import the registry backup by double-clicking the .reg file
- attach the media storage hard drives (or network shares).
Restoring their drive letters as they were. - restore the Plex data folder to a location of your choice (recommended for a larger media collection: a dedicated SSD)
- modify the registry to point plex to the actual location of the plex data folder.
See [HowTo] An extended guide on how to move the Plex data folder on Windows for details. - install Plex media server software
Done.
