Tape Backups

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Andy van Eyk

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Fax: 086-688-6827

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Tape Backups

Computer Architects

CK 2005/146020/23

Return to Backups

Backup Methods:

· Tape

· CD

· Disk

Backup intervals:

· Four DAILY tapes

· Four WEEKLY tapes

· 12 MONTHLY tapes

· 5 YEARLY tapes

Click here for a Backup Schedule!

Tape Backup

This is probably the most common method used today. Software is required and Microsoft has a built in simple tool called “Backup” that one can use. Other more sophisticated software is Backup Exec from Symantec (click here for software link).

Tape backups have their problems, but are considered to be the industry preferred backup method. They are relatively simple to operate depending on the software being used, and robust.

Consider keeping a spare identical tape drive off-site as the older drives are not always compatible with the newer ones. This is mainly in the event of a theft or fire where you have lost your server machine.

A top priority of your designated responsible person for the daily backups, is to CHECK the backup has actually gone through the previous evening. Far too many instances this is not done; the person just changes the tape, and when the backup is needed, it is found the last successful backup was months ago!

Advantages:

· Unattended.

· Simple set up, both software and physical.

· Small and compact storage media.

· Remove previous days tape and simply put the next days one in!

Disadvantages:

· Tape rotation required.

· Tapes stretch.

· Costly upgrade path when your data gets bigger than the tape size.

· Limited shelf life.

· In the event of a theft, it is sometimes difficult to obtain a compatible drive to restore your date from, especially if the drive is “old”.

Backup Tips:

· Do Regular Backups!

· Use Reliable Backup media!

· Rotate your backup media if using tapes!

· Test your Backups at regular intervals!

· Keep your Backups Off-Site!

· Do not use “compression”!

· Once “compression” has to be used to backup ALL your data, it is time to get a larger capacity device!

· This gives you a “grace” period to find the budget to purchase the larger device before your capacity is reached.

· ALWAYS “overwrite” data!

· Implement a Disaster Recovery Plan!

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