Issue:

Restore of SharePoint differential backup fails with error: V-79-57344-33938 - The log or differential backup cannot be restored because no files are ready to roll forward.



Solution:

This issue occurs because a differential or log restore job has been attempted when the SQL database is in the incorrect state to receive this type of restore.  In order to perform differential or log restores for a database, that database must have had a full backup restored with the 'NORECOVERY' option first.  The NORECOVERY option leaves the database in a loading or restoring state that allows additional differential or log restores.  Accomplishing this is possible in one of two ways.  The first is to perform an individual full backup restore with the setting 'Bring restored databases online' unchecked, followed by log or differential restore with that setting checked.  The second and simpler method is described below.

1. Restore the entire full backup of SharePoint as well as the differential backup in one job.

File | New | Restore Job | View by Resource

2. Select the full backup of SharePoint resources as well as the desired differential backup.

3. Select "Microsoft SharePoint" under settings and make sure to check the box for "Bring restored databases online" and "Reconnect previous database links"



4. Select "Run Now"