Media rotation, Backup tips – Follett VERSION 6.00 User Manual

Page 606

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04/04

606

Utilities

can choose to back up specific directories and files or all the files and directories

on the server. As each vendor uses different terminology to define the backup

types, you'll need to refer to the vendor's documentation for definitions and

instructions. For information about backing up your Follett applications with

thirdĆparty software, see the instructions beginning on page 610.

Media rotation

One key element of any data recovery plan is the rotation of your backup media.

Whatever type of media you're using, a systematic rotation of your media lets

you restore selected files, selected subdirectories, or entire disk/volumes. This

saves time and enables you to choose the most accurate and current data to

restore. Another advantage of rotating media is cost effectiveness. That is, you

won't have to use as many zip disks, floppy diskettes, tapes, etc. The following

table suggests a method of rotating six sets of media:

Mon.

Tue.

Wed.

Thu.

Fri.

OffĆsite

Database

Database

Database

Database

System

System

Week 1

Set 1

Set 2

Set 3

Set 4

Set 5

(Set 5)

Week 2

Set 1

Set 2

Set 3

Set 4

Set 6

(Set 6)

In the above example, backup your database on Monday with Set 1, use Set 2 on

Tuesday, etc. On Friday, run a backup of the system and take that backup offĆsite.

The next week, use Set 6 on Friday, and then take that set offĆsite and bring Set 5

back for the next Friday's backup.

Note:

Follett Software's Backup and Restore will only back up your database

files. To back up your entire system, you will need to use a backup solution

from a thirdĆparty vendor.

Backup tips

For a backup to be an effective part of your data recovery plan, you must back up

regularly. The following points are good guidelines to follow, regardless of the

backup software you use:

S

Label your backups with the day, volume number, type of backup, and

current version number of your Follett application, so that, if the need arises,

you can quickly decide which backup to restore.

S

Rotate your backup media regularly. Since every type of media wears out

over time, it's best to always keep one new set on hand.

S

Keep your backup media in their protective cases and away from any

magnetic fields, power supplies, telephones, monitors, and security systems.

S

Store one total backup offĆsite. Whether at home, office, or somewhere else,

offĆsite storage of backups is the best protection against fire, flood, or theft.

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