What is the first step in restoring a database from a backup after a failure?

The first step in restoring a database from a backup after a failure involves replaying the changes recorded in the log. This process is crucial because it ensures that any transactions that occurred after the backup was taken can be applied to the database, allowing for a more complete restoration to the state just before the failure occurred.

Logs contain detailed records of all transactions and modifications made to the database, including those that happened after the last backup. By replaying these changes, you can recover data that would otherwise be lost, which is essential for maintaining data integrity and continuity.

The other options, while they may be relevant in certain contexts, do not represent the most appropriate first step in the restoration process. For instance, deleting previous transactions or shutting down database services may disrupt the restoration process rather than facilitate it. Creating a new backup is also not applicable at this stage as the priority is to recover the existing database from the backup to restore operations as quickly as possible.