Backup Strategy to Reduce dbase downtime during backup

[SmirnoffBlu]

I currently have a database that needs to get backed up nightly to the size of approx 3gb.

For the backup to take place I have to shut the database down therefore the users have to exit for approx 5-10 mins whilst the database copies to another location on the same hdd. (Only files that have changed since last backup)

Im trying to determine the best way to either :

1. reduce the dbase downtime

2. Prevent the need to users to exit the db during the backup.


My only concern with option 2. is open files when it comes to restoring the database



Any advice would be greatful.

 

[rgzimmer]

What kind of database, OS, and backup software are you using?

 

[SmirnoffBlu]

It's a Paradox database

Network Backup software :- Arcserve for NT 6.5

Xcopy command used to copy the database from one directory to another on the same HDD.