CloudM Backup supports the backup of Google Chat data, specifically focusing on Direct Messages (DMs). This includes 1-1 conversations and group DMs with multiple members.
Note on Restoration:
Due to Google technical constraints, Chat data cannot be restored directly to the user's active Chat interface. Restored data is provided as a downloadable HTML file, featuring a filtering function to search through the conversation history.
For details on restoration, see: How to run a restoration for Google Chat from Backup
Supported Data Types and Exclusions
For a comprehensive list of supported Chat fields, metadata, and specific exclusions, please refer to our central documentation:
CloudM Backup: Supported Features & Exclusions
Configuration
1. Google Chat API Setup
To enable Chat backup, you must configure the Google Chat API in the GCP Project where your Domain-Wide Delegation Service Account resides.
For step-by-step instructions on enabling the API and configuring the Chat App (including the critical "Workspace add-on" warning), please refer to the primary setup guide:
Setting up Domain-Wide Delegation and enabling APIs for CloudM Backup
2. Storage and Policy Configuration
Once the API is configured, update your backup settings within the CloudM platform:
- Retention Periods: Include "Chat" as an option for Inactive Backups.
- Backup Frequency: Include "Chat" in your frequency settings. The recommended frequency is 20 minutes.
- New Policies: Chat is selected by default when creating a new policy.
- Existing Policies: When editing an existing policy, Chat is deselected by default. You must manually select it to enable Chat backup for that policy.
Monitoring Backup Status
You can monitor Chat backup progress via the Backup Status page:
- Status Filtering: "Chat requires action" is available in the status filtering dropdown.
- Status Column: "Chat" status is visible for individual users.
- Sidebar Selection: "Chat" is available as an option in the sidebar selection tool.