Setting a SQL Database to Simple Recovery Model

To set a SQL database to the Simple Recovery Model, perform the following steps.

Note: Having a database in this recovery model is required in order to take differential backups (instead of full backups).

1. Open SQL Server Management Studio.
2. Log into the SQL instance containing the database you want to back up.
3. Expand the Databases folder to show the database you want.
4. Right-click the database and select Properties.
5. In the Properties window, select the Options page on the left.
   
6. Change the Recovery model: field to Simple and click OK at the bottom.