application functionality installed on them. This article is based on the solution
from Symantec -. Backup Exec System 2010 R3. Data protection is crucial for the
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Backup copies: Symantec Backup Exec as an example of an advanced system for the creation and management of backup
The development of information technology in recent years resulted in today's organizations needing to buy computer systems for gathering, processing and using necessary data. The possession of data, however, is associated with ensuring the continuity of the functioning of critical applications, the proper operation of production systems and the safety and correctness of stored data. For those purposes backup systems - solutions responsible for having copies of files and information – have been developed. If you delete or damage data, the backup system is able to restore the lost information, as well as the entire operating systems or application functionality installed on them. This article is based on the solution from Symantec Backup Exec System 2010 R3.
Data protection is crucial for the proper functioning of all types of organizations. A tool that ensures information backup and guarantees a high level of security is Symantec Backup Exec. It is a specialized program that contains a set of applications and modules, a powerful solution for creating copies of data and system images. The latest version of this software is, as of now, Backup Exec 2010 R3. This system is intended for server-network environments, based on the Microsoft Windows platform. Symantec Backup Exec has a full suite of advanced technologies to create data copies in various configurations, depending on the needs of the systems administrator. The solution provided by Symantec supports multiple operating systems and hardware environments. The key features of Symantec Backup Exec 2010 include: Providing support for operating systems that run both on physical and virtual machines; Working in virtual environments, such as Microsoft Hyper-V or VMware; Supports the creation of images with backup copies for all commonly used operating systems, such as Windows, Unix, Linux, Solaris, MAC OS;
Allows the creation of full disgharges of operating systems along with applications and databases installed on them, such as Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, SAP and Lotus Domino; Supports all popular types of data storage media, both tape and disk and any configuration of them; Allows the use of all available communication channels, such as Fiber Channel, SCSI, SAS, iSCSI, NAS, SAN, LAN, WAN.
Schema 1 – how Backup Exec works
The operation of Symantec Backup Exec was organized in a clear way, the key role going to the central management console - Media Server. On this console, all data tasks associated with backups and data restoration. Installing the Media Server requires Windows, which cannot operate in a virtual machine – all devices that support communication channels, as well as any necessary controllers and drivers used to store copies must be connected to the server. Media Server plays a key role in managing clients installed on other systems in a network environment, which are to be backed up. Thanks to working in a client/server system, Backup Exec provides many options of quick configuration, implementation and full control of the whole environment by an administrator from one location. Performing backup copies and restoring data is fully scalable and applies to both servers and workstations running on any supported operating system. After planning and configuring work, the administrator can control them by a set of notifications and alerts. The administrative console contains tools to shift tasks, view the results, and manage resources and devices. If configuration changes are necessary, the administrator can change parameters without the need to restart the entire backup process. Actions performed and run by the Media Server according to the planned schedule allow full automation of work. Backup Exec manages processes and starts tasks by sending commands to clients installed on systems that run in a hosted environment, from which the data is then copied onto the prepared media. The diagram below shows an example of the organization of the Backup Exec system.
Schema 2 the functionalities of the Backup Exec system
Symantec Backup Exec is the product responsible for creating copies of data and for recovering it. Armed with a set of applications, plugins and configuration options, it meets all requirements of system administrators regarding backup, even in the most advanced IT environments. Backup Exec has very well-prepared essential documentation, allowing for simple implementation and altering it to fit the needs of the organization. Symantec's flagship product simplifies the work of system administrators, providing a high level of data security in the administered environment. The modules provided in the purchased licenses for Backup Exec contain many interesting solutions that distinguish this product from similar ones. An example would be the Intelligent Disaster Recovery Option – a smart restoration option, which provides the ability to recover the operating system without having to reinstall the system before starting the recovery process. The smart recovery option facilitates fast recovery in case of hardware failure. The Intelligent Disaster Recovery Option offers the opportunity to recover the system without hardware compatibility with the existing machine and virtual environment. Additionally, the administrator may use such facilities, as working remotely from other locations and the option of using virtual environments. After the recovery operation, the operating system returns to pre-crash state, which means that it regains full functionality of all installed applications. Another useful feature used in Backup Exec is the Advanced Open File Option – it is protection for all open files using the Microsoft
technology called Shadow Copy Services VSS. This means that the files are copied, even if at the time they are open and being used. Author: Przemysław Łopaciński, Support Online Sp. z o.o. Source: http://www.symantec.com
To sum up, Symantec Backup Exec is a solution advised by Support Online. In our company, IT specialists and certified engineers with experience in implementing, configuring and managing backup systems deal with backup copy service. The systems we use and their management are key solutions implemented in our Clients’ businesses. If you are interested in finding out more regarding backup solutions or any other services offered by our company, contact us: Support Online Sp. z o.o. tel. + 22 335 28 00 e-mail:
[email protected] www.support-online.pl
