Purchase Recommendations

[Silmeron]

Hi guys,

I have four Windows Servers, 3 running Windows Server 2003, and one running Windows Powered for NAS (2000). I also run Exchange Server 2003. I have a Dell DLT IV auto-loader and I want to make sure I purchase the right software for the job. What do you guys recommend, just a copy of Veritas Backup Exec 9.0 and the Exchange Agent?

Thanks,
-S-

 

[Silmeron]

One additional thing to mention, I would like to backup several Windows XP Professional workstations as well.

Thanks,
-S-

 

[justin2000]

silmeron

1 backup exec
1 exchange agent
2 remote agents

 

[Silmeron]

Any recommendations for other software that might not be as expensive? The small business this is for will most likely not want to spend the $1400 in software

If not, is the Exchange server agent really necessary if I just want to restore the entire installation and database (as opposed to individual public and private box support)?

Just curious - new to this backup thang

Thanks,
~S~

 

[justin2000]

silmeron

the agent isn't needed if you shutdown the exchange services every night before the backup starts.
if you want to backup exchange online, you need the exchange option.

The thing is the option is meant for the mailbox stores to be backed up online, not for the individual public and private box support - FYI, if you have a look at the DR doco for Exchange from MS, there is no mention of doing mailbox backups - why? because MS never intended MAPI to be used for backups.

If you follow good admin practices with Exchange you should never have to restore a mailbox from a backup - how?
1. Set up deleted item retention on the mailbox and public folder stores - at least 14 days, preferably 30 days.
2. Never delete a mailbox without first exportig the data to a PST file.

There are other backup programs out there - much cheaper than Backup Exec - Novanet and retrospect are 2 I can think of off hand.
but then again, if you don't want to pay anything, just use NTbackup.

 

[Rols]

Everyone wants something for free......

If you dont want to pay use NTBACKUP....

 

[Zelandakh]

Use NTbackup on each server that is file and print. BE with Exchange for Exchange server - remote agent may even back up some of the other servers.

You CAN use ntbackup on the exchange server as it has a plug in to back up the exchange server. Justification for spending money? If you delete an email, a mailbox or whack the server totally, I wouldn't want to be in your shoes...

Zel. BE user for 10 years. Exchange user for 5. Still employed...

 

[Silmeron]

Thanks guys - I can't use NTBackup (at least not in an unattended manner due to our autoloader), but I got the go-ahead for everything Justin recommended.

Again thanks,
~S~

 

[Silmeron]

One more question guys, the Remote Agent CAL includes the Advanced File Open Option, correct?

~S~

 

[Kopfjager]

NO, its the other way around. Each AOFO license comes with a remote agent bundled with it. AOFO cannot work without a remote agent, but a remote agent can work by itself.

Hope that helps

Kopf