Windows 2000 Backup - SQL Databases

[markmark]

Hi, I have a question regarding Windows 2000 Advanced Server's built in Backup Program. It is to do with backing up SQL databases.

Every day of the week the databases are backed up. On the first day of every week i run a full backup of all data files and databases, then every other day of the week i run incremental backups and append these the the full backup file of monday.

What i understood was supposed to happen was that any data changes were to be append to the backup file. However, everyday the backup file increases in size by about 600 megabytes, which is the size of the databases we have on the server. However this happens even if the databases have not been modified at all.

Its not a major drama, just a little bit annoying. We are not struggling with space by any means, just that this seems a little wierd.

Anyone else having a similar problem?
Anyone know of any solutions?

Cheers,


ps, this is my first post here at tek-tips, so any negative feedback about my posting method will be appreciated. 8)

 

[comtec17]

How are you backing up the databases? If you are just backing up the directory, you are not getting a good backup. If the DBA is running a dump daily, then yes, the file will change by the complete size of the database. Keep in mind, all databases when touched changes the data/time stamp on the files associated with the database. If you want to do incremental backups of the database you will have to purchase a 3rd party backup software with a database agent.

 

[markmark]

Thanks for that.

We are just backing up the directories atm, im not a guru as such on databases, but i can check with someone who knows more about them as to whether it is running a daily dump.

I thought we were going to have to purchase other software. I have been trailing some 3rd party software, but we are just a small company and will not be looking into purchasing anything for another 6 months or so. Ive read that Veritas Backup Exec is prety good?

 

[comtec17]

If you are a small shop and dont want to spend a ton of money and want a great solution go to

http://www.bakbone.com

and view the NetVault product. You can download a 45 day eval. During registration put "Salem Group" as how you found the site.

 

[markmark]

Thanks for that. I'm looking at it as we speak.