NTBackup help please

[pcwilson]

Hi All

Just fitted a second tape drive in an NT4 server as I now have too much data to fit on one tape. I'm using tape drive 0 to backup Exchange server and tape drive 1 to backup all other data.

I now have two backup scipts which I've scheduled to run each day at 22:00 and 22:05 respectively but only one seems to run. Is it possible to have NTBackup running twice at the same time, or do I need to schedule the two scripts to run at different times so they don't overlap?

[trevorw]

From memory I think you can only run 1 backup at a time.

[pcwilson]

trevorw said:

From memory I think you can only run 1 backup at a time.

Bugger. My backup window is shrinking and I was hoping to backup in half the time by using 2 drives. I guess I could install one tape drive in a different server and backup up exchange across the network.

[_dobbo_]

In my experience whilst backup isn't always that efficient, it tends to be ok if left in the background - any reason you can't stagger them?

Otherwise, time for either a bigger drive or an autoloader...

[randlemarcus]

Disk to disk to tape - bu99er the backup window, we'll do it at lunchtime

Get the cheapskates to upgrade to W2k3 and E2k3, and use the Voulme Shadow Copy stuff. do the shadow copy thing a few times during the day, and pop it on tape over coffee and donuts at a civilised hour.

[pcwilson]

randlemarcus said:

Disk to disk to tape - bu99er the backup window, we'll do it at lunchtime Get the cheapskates to upgrade to W2k3 and E2k3, and use the Voulme Shadow Copy stuff. do the shadow copy thing a few times during the day, and pop it on tape over coffee and donuts at a civilised hour.

I'm starting to look at migrating to W2K3 and E2k3. I've a meeting with my FD shortly to discuss upgrading. I would appreciate any advice on how to justify the cost of the new hardware, licences and training. We're not a technology company and NT4 and Ex5.5 currently meet all our needs.

[_dobbo_]

Excuse my ignorance but if what you have meets your needs then why are you considering an upgrade?

Assuming you really need to upgrade, it's worth remembering the Windows/Exchange isn't the only combo out there to provide that functionality...

[pcwilson]

_dobbo_ said:

Excuse my ignorance but if what you have meets your needs then why are you considering an upgrade? Assuming you really need to upgrade, it's worth remembering the Windows/Exchange isn't the only combo out there to provide that functionality...

Hi _dobbo_

Good points, which is why I will find it hard to justify the expense to my FD, but a couple of reasons I can think of include:

1. NT4 / Ex5.5 is not supported by MS anymore; no more hotfixes, service packs.
2. Some of the new technologies we're starting to look at e.g MS Mobile Data requires latest MS servers.
3. From a professional development point of view, I want the exposure to new technology.

[_dobbo_]

All valid points, I suspect that 1.) is the clincher as far as the financial bods are concerned...

[225]

You need to ask them how much it would cost the business if something went seriously wrong with NT or Ex5.5, and it was down for a day or so. Very difficult to get support, MS will tell you to go away and blame a 3rd party.
Also the time and money of general admin is far far higher with NT/5.5 when compared of W2k£ and Exchange 2003.