When is a Snapshot backup a viable backup option?

A Snapshot backup is particularly viable as a backup option when Tableau Server is configured with an External File Store. This setup allows for a clear separation of the Tableau Server repository data and the file data, which includes workbooks, data sources, and extracts stored externally.

When an External File Store is utilized, taking a Snapshot means that the backup can include both the metadata in the repository and the associated file store content, ensuring a more comprehensive backup solution. This is critical because, in scenarios where files are stored internally, taking a Snapshot may not capture those files accurately or completely, leading to potential data loss or inconsistencies during a restore operation.

In contrast, during maintenance mode, while it may be able to backup, it is not the primary condition that makes a Snapshot backup an optimal choice since it doesn't inherently relate to the structure of file storage. Similarly, a Snapshot is not recommended in all configurations nor is it limited to usage only during major updates, as its effectiveness significantly relies on the presence of an External File Store configuration.