Centralized backup solution
I have a Novell network running Netware 6.5 with 3 Netware file servers, 1 Groupwise server, 1 Netware Web Server and 2 OSx 10.3.7 Mac Xservers. I am currently backing up each server with a tape drive of its own (T100 Dell).

I was wondering what you would suggest in our environment for a centralized backup solution.

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A central backup solution is the right place to start to reduce the media management overhead imposed by direct attached, single tape devices. There are many software solutions that will fit your environment such as Veritas NetBackup, TSM, Legato, BakBone, CommVault, ARCserve and many more.

As always, your selection criteria should focus on choosing a solution that will first address your business requirements and second, fit within your organization's IT budget. It should be noted that cost is not restricted to software licensing. Supportability and availability of skilled personnel must also be considered. As appealing as it may sometimes seem, choosing the underdog can have its drawbacks from that perspective.

A good consultant would typically stay away from recommending a specific brand name or product. But in this case, the combination of platforms might favor Computer Associates' BrightStor ARCserve, because it supports both Novell Netware and MAC OS and also offers an agent for Groupwise.

This was first published in April 2005

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