How can I backup exchange through a CDWRITER not through backup tapes?

[Elize]

Hello to all..

I'm just a very new guy in this forum, do you have any suggestions on how can I backup exchange 5.5 important files for restoration later on if it crashes..(i hope not.. through a CD writer not through backup tapes? I am using NT 4 SP6, Exchange 5.5 SP4. What files do I need to backup anyway? When backing up,do I still need to shutdown my exchange server which I don't want to do so since we are using it 24X7 operational? I don't have any backup software like veritas backup exec since my company does not want to spend money on it.. can you also suggest any backup software for use FREE if possible and can work through CD-WRITERS...?

looking forward for you suggestions...
thank you in advance..

 

[N0ktar]

If it's running on Windows 2000 server use the native NTBackup utility and back up to a file. Once backup completes just write the file to a CD.