Section 12.6. Solutions Fast Track

12.6. Solutions Fast Track

12.6.1.

12.6.1.1. Backing Up the Service Console

The Service Console supports agents and backup server software that runs on the Linux platform.

The Service Console can be backed up across the network or local tape drive.

The Service Console can run backup server software and back up to a local tape drive, but this is not recommended because it requires higher resource utilization on the Service Console.

12.6.1.2. Backing Up Virtual Machines

Virtual machines can be backed up just like physical servers.

You can back up virtual disk files to create a complete backup of the VM.

Certain Linux and third-party applications can't handle files larger than 2GB.

You should separate the VMs' system data from their application data, control the location of frequently changing data on a separate file system of media (for example, SAN, separate directory structure, and so on). Maintain a backup environment of these data sets using your normal backup or SAN's repository strategy.

Back up VMs' systems disks via the Service Console in a suspended or powered-down mode of operation, a snapshot approach can be administered but should be done only after considering the risk exposure induced by this approach.

Back up VMs' data disks via backup agents in those VMs. This approach works best if using media backup technology or a combination of SANs replication technology.

Use snapshot backups with care. Remember that these snapshots impose risk owing to open file conditions. Snapshots require that redo logs be maintained at all times. Based on the type of snapshot dynamics, multiple redo logs may be implemented. Restoration of a snapshot requires that the redo logs be committed in a chronological order. Although the advantages of snapshots allow for minimal downtime opportunities, a long-term plan that evaluates the risk versus the reward should be considered before deploying this approach. Applications and services should be quiesced, suspended, or shut down if possible during the snapshot events. There should always be a cold backup performed and maintained on a regular basis in order to support a recovery in case of unplanned events.

12.6.1.3. Best Practices

Separate system data from application data in your backups.

Develop a detailed backup schedule for your Service Console and VMs.

Validate and test the backup and restore process to ensure it will work before you actually need it.