How to backup a Sharepoint list and restore it to a different name?

Hi @Dzung Nguyen,

Thank you for reaching out. Regarding your request to back up a SharePoint list and restore it under a different name (effectively creating a duplicate), we recommend the following approaches depending on your needs and environment:

1. If you only need to copy the structure (columns/views):

Use SharePoint’s built-in “Create list from existing list” feature:

• Go to the SharePoint site where you want the new list.
• Select New > List > From existing list.
• Choose the source list and enter a new name.
• The new list will have the same structure but no data.

Best for: Starting fresh with the same layout and manually adding new items.

2. If you need to copy both structure and content (list under 50MB):

Use the “Save list as template” feature:

• Go to List Settings > Save list as template (requires enabling custom script).
• Check “Include Content” to back up data.
• Create a new list from the saved template.

Note: This feature is hidden by default in SharePoint Online and requires admin rights to enable.

3. If the list is large or custom scripts are blocked:

Use PnP PowerShell to export the list to an XML file and recreate it:

• Connect to the source site using PowerShell.
• Use Get-PnPSiteTemplate to export the structure.
• Use Add-PnPDataRowsToSiteTemplate to include data.
• Connect to the target site and use Invoke-PnPSiteTemplate to create the new list.

Best for: Admin users or advanced scenarios like cross-site migration or automation.

4. If you prefer a no-code solution and the list is moderately sized:

Use Power Automate (Flow) to copy items:

• First, create the target list with matching columns.
• Build a flow that:
  • Retrieves items from the source list.
    • Creates identical items in the target list.
      • (Optional) Copies attachments with additional steps.

Best for: Users familiar with Power Automate who want a UI-driven solution.

• For a one-time duplication and if you have admin rights, try the Save as Template method first.
• If that’s not feasible or fails due to size, and you're comfortable with scripting, use PnP PowerShell.
• Otherwise, for a user-friendly approach without admin privileges, use Power Automate after recreating the list structure.

If you need further assistance or have any questions or concerns, please feel free to share them with me.

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