Media rotation, Backup tips – Follett VERSION 6.00 User Manual
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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.