Moving Backup Exec

[PeterL]

If the machine I use to backup my servers dies shouldnt I be able install the software and hardware on another machine and access my tapes? Do the catologs live locally on the computer or did they die with the computer.

 

[SQLBill]

The catalogs should be on the hard drive, are you moving the hard drive(s) also? Here's a solution.

Install the software on the new server, then inventory all your tapes, then catalog all the tapes.

-SQLBill

 

[PeterL]

Actually the server which ran Backup Exec crashed. I have another server that I can install the software and DLT drive. I am worried that I won't be able to restore an tapes created on the old machine.

 

[SQLBill]

I had my whole cluster crash. Brought the cluster backup and had to reload ALL of my software (operating system included). In Backup Exec, restore tab there was nothing listed. I did an inventory of all my tapes. Then one by one (since it can be a long process), I cataloged each tape. Then all the information was back in the Restore tab and I was able to restore my databases.

-SQLBill

 

[PerryMc]

Cataloging takes about the same amount of time as the backup did in the first place. If you have a lot it may be more effort than it's worth. You can always catalog a tape that you need to restore from and then restore from it.

Smile anyway,
Perry.

 

[Davix]

It has been awhile since I have played with backup exec but I know many other backup programs allow you to keep the catalog on another drive on the same server. Check the manual and I will bet that Veritas has allowed for the same thing.

 

[Fuubar]

Copy/paste the following directories and files to an alternate location:
1. From \Program Files\Veritas\Backup Exec\NT copy the Data folder, Catalogs folder and pvl.mdb
2. From \winnt copy the besnnum.txt file out (assuming this is Backup Exec 8.6, this file will be present and it contains all your serial #'s)

What you would do is:
1. Run Backup Exec install setup.
2. At serial # screen, click the 'Import' button and browse to the besnnum.txt file and it will populate this screen with all serial #'s instead of you inputting manually.)
3. Choose the options you had installed previously.
4. After the install wizard is complete. Open Backup Exec.
5. Next your way thru all wizards paying no attention to any of the wizard content, just finish all wizards.
6. Now close Backup Exec, stop all Backup Exec services and now copy your Catalogs folder, Data folder and pvl.mdb file to your NT folder.
7. Start all BE services and you are back up and running just like before with all settings intact.

Enjoy!!

 

[Andronium]

There is an option to "use storage media-based catalogs" in the catalog tab of the options menu. I have been told that this speeds up the cataloging process, but haven't had to try it yet. Does anyone know how much faster this can make cataloging?