To back up your database, use the export function in PhpMyAdmin.
To restore a backup, use the SQL function in phpMyAdmin.
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There is no need to install version 1.10 of B2e. Go ahead with the most recent version available (currently version 1.93).

Good luck

thanks for the response. I just want to know how to do it in case I want to upgrade in the future.

I exported the database, or maybe just the tables, i'm not sure. I'm thinking just the tables. I chose no compression, copied and paste the "dump" to a text editor.

To test, i created a new MySQL database, running the querries right now. I uploaded the files for 1.10 and will choose "upgrade" during installation.

I'll report back later.

aside from the missing skin (was using andreas01 and forgot to upload it to 1.10 folder) and gallery plugin not working (existing galleries not showing images)...there weren't any (other) major problem...

i guess now i know how to backup/restore to same installation of b2evo. for now, i'll hold off on the upgrade until i have time to mess around with the gallery plugin.

If you have cpanel you could also have used the 'backup' feature to both backup and restore a database.