> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.driftmark.app/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Running snapshots

> Learn the two ways snapshots are run in Driftmark.

# Running snapshots

There are two ways to run a snapshot in Driftmark:

* manual snapshot run
* scheduled automatic snapshot run

Both create the same type of snapshot. The difference is how the run is triggered.

## Manual snapshot run

Use a manual run when you want to capture the current tenant state immediately.

This is useful when:

* you just connected a tenant
* you just assigned or changed a template
* you made a known configuration change and want to verify it
* you want an on-demand drift check

### Where to run it

You can run a manual snapshot from:

* the Microsoft integrations page
* the tenant configuration page

Look for the **Run snapshot** button.

## Scheduled automatic snapshot run

Use a scheduled run when you want Driftmark to capture snapshots on a regular cadence without manual intervention.

This is configured per tenant on the tenant configuration page.

### Where to configure it

Go to:

`Settings -> Integrations -> Microsoft`

Then open the tenant and use the **Snapshot schedule** section.

You can configure:

* how often the snapshot runs
* the interval unit
* the start date and time

Depending on your plan, available schedule units may differ.

## Choosing between manual and scheduled runs

### Use manual runs when

* you need a snapshot right now
* you are testing a new connection
* you are validating a change before or after remediation

### Use scheduled runs when

* you want regular evidence collection
* you want ongoing drift monitoring
* you want consistent historical coverage over time

## Practical workflow

A common workflow is:

1. Connect the tenant.
2. Assign a template.
3. Run the first snapshot manually.
4. Review the results.
5. Configure the ongoing schedule for future snapshots.

## After the snapshot runs

Once a snapshot completes, you can:

* review the overview tab
* inspect the inventory tab
* compare drift
* add comments
* export the snapshot as JSON

If report generation is enabled for the tenant and your plan supports it, you can also generate or schedule PDF reports separately.