We are using DNN Article module in our portal and now we have decided to make a copy on another server so we can test different stuff without putting our live website in jeopardy. The problem is we do not have a back up copy of DNN Article module. I found all the other modules but wondering if there is any way i can copy and paste to new test portal? Please let me know if its possible.

If you go to the Module Settings page, you will find a dropdown menu item that lets you create a zip file that contains the module. Check the box to include a manifest file. Then save the zip file and you can install it on any other site.

Note that this doesn't preserver content. For that you'll have to export from the module, if the module supports import and export of data.

If you are using the core DNN module, you can download a copy of it from DotNetNuke.com.

I am a newbie.. where do I find the module setting page?

It is under the Host menu.

I have module definitions under the host menu... but that does not have any option to create zip files..

If you go to the specific module, the dropdown for the module will have that option.

so I went to host menu then module definitions and then i see all the modules there.. but I can click on edit (pencil) only and it takes me to add definitions but does not give me any saving option. The drop-down menu for module definitions only have help/online help options.

Your other alternative is to create a full backup of your live website and restore it to a local installation,  this way you can test anything on your local installation without affecting your live installation. Have a look at these tutorials for further information:

• How to backup a live hosted DotNetNuke website and restore it to a localhost installation
• How to transfer a localhost DotNetNuke installation to a live website
• Find and Replace SQL queries for DotNetNuke
  (To fix problems after transferring a localhost database to a live website and other useful functions)
• How to synchronize local and live DotNetNuke installations
• How to setup and use Microsoft Virtual PC 2007

we are planning for major changes and thinking about making a new one from scratch to I do not want to do a full back up. I only need to move all modules from live portal to one on our server so we can create a totally new and fresh look website.