Compression in backups

[BobSheridan]

Before I activate it, does anybody know of any issues with using hardware compression when backing up an exchange server? I'm running ArcServe 2000 on a Compaq Proliant ML370 G2. We are using Exchange Server 2000.

I would rather not find out by trial and error, and although I've not found anything to say that there are problems, i've also not found anything that says there aren't problems.

Thanks,

Bob Sheridan

 

[ReddLefty]

What is your backup system? Hardware Compression will be done at the backup system level (example, tape backup level).

Although, I don't know of any problems using the standard hardware compression that comes with tape backup systems. I've never turned "off" my hardware compression on any backup system (they generally are "on" by default). That goes for any data...




"In space, nobody can hear you click..."

 

[BobSheridan]

Sorry ReddLefty, we are using Sony AIT2 backup tapes.

The reason why I'm asking is because I know you start to lose information when you compress data multiple times, and I'm not sure if Exchange has some sort of inbuilt compression in it. Last thing I want is to find that my exchange backups are losing data!

 

[ReddLefty]

Well, your media get worn out eventually and the data on the tape may start being corrupted, but data compression itself has never been an issue. The only difference between compressed and non-compressesed is the time it takes to compress it.




"In space, nobody can hear you click..."

 

[BobSheridan]

Ok then, thanks for your advice ReddLefty. I'll give this a go. I just felt it would be wise to check in case there's something glaringly obvious that I've missed.

 

[ReddLefty]

In any case, always preform a restore test after your first trials at successfull backup plan. It's an unwritten rule that may "save your rear" in the near futur.




"In space, nobody can hear you click..."

 

[BobSheridan]

Thanks for the tip! I do generally tend to do a test whenever I change back-up - or indeed any - procedures, but there's no harm in reminding a fellow.

Cheers!

Bob Sheridan