In this video, I will show you exactly how to back up and restore datasets on TrueNAS SCALE with clear, step-by-step instructions. You’ll learn how to configure backup tasks, select datasets, and choose the best backup destinations. I also cover how to restore your data safely without breaking your existing configuration. This guide is perfect for anyone running a home lab, small business NAS, or enterprise storage setup. Whether you’re new to TrueNAS or already familiar with it, the tips in this video will help improve your backup workflow. I’ll also explain common errors and how to fix them quickly. By the end of the video, you’ll be able to set up reliable dataset backups and perform restores confidently. Make sure you watch until the end to avoid missing important best practices.

Step 1: Create a backup folder

You should mount external storage folders such as SMB/NFS/Onedrive/….
In this demo, I will make an SMB folder
For example: /mnt/smbbackup

Dataset: Department, Homefolder

Step 2: Run the backup command

sudo rsync -avh /mnt/volume1 /mnt/smbbackup/

Step 3: Create a Cron Job

System => Cron jobs

rsync -av /mnt/volume1/ /mnt/smbbackup/

Test run

Step 4: Cron Job a specific date folder

Edit the command according to the format
rsync -av /mnt/volume1/ /mnt/smbbackup/backup_$(date +\%Y-\%m-\%d)/