Best server 2003 backup method?

[starscream]

I have set up my domain with ranger and a dell server. I ordered a dell backup tape drive. It didn't come with any backup software though.

What do you use for backing up your server to tape and how would you recover the data following a disaster?

Obviously I want a full backup somehow of all settings and files on the server.

What would be the best way to do this? What should I bear in mind. Are there any free backup software titles that are up the job?

ta!

[mrforgetful]

ntbackup is what we use for everything except SQL.

Make sure you backup the System State and things and you should be fine. Give a restore a go on a spare PC when you have a backup. This would involve installing Server 2003 then loading ntbackup and restoring everything. It's Wizards.

[plexer]

Loads of posts on this topic, did you do a search?

One such one is:

http://www.edugeek.net/index.php?nam...hlight=backups

Ben

[PiqueABoo]

What do you use for backing up your server to tape

Routinely backing up just the system state to a **file** is a good thing too.

how would you recover the data following a disaster

Depends on the disaster. Here's a couple that can and sometimes do happen when there's an abrupt loss of power or hardware reset, or someone held the power button down etc.

1) Broken registry (won't boot or can't logon). Boot system with bartPE CD, replace broken registry files with recent copies from repair folder, reboot in AD restore mode and restore system state from file backup.

2) Broken AD (can logon). Boot in AD restore mode and restore system state from from file backup.