Windows 2012 network server backup
New client - and they don't want to spend any money! New Windows 2012 R2 server has been installed but they also need to retain an application server and an exchange server. 1 domain controller and 2 member servers in total. What is the best way to backup the 3 servers (and most cost effective?).
Curt Petricca
Are they virtual servers? Backup approaches are very different between the two.
ASKER
No they are physical servers....
Well you can use Windows Server Backup. That is a free tool included with 2012R2. Set that up with external hard drives and you have a local backup. I would recommend uploading those backups to a cloud site or off site location as well.
They need to think of it like insurance. The better the coverage, the more they have to spend.
Important to ask questions like how fast do they need to be up and running if the worst happens.
Second how often should you back up? In other words, how much data can they afford to lose?
Third, the backups should be stored offsite in case the building has a fire or something like that.
Important to ask questions like how fast do they need to be up and running if the worst happens.
Second how often should you back up? In other words, how much data can they afford to lose?
Third, the backups should be stored offsite in case the building has a fire or something like that.
Data is not backed up if there is only 1 copy.. use the 3-2-1 rule.. 3 copies 2 media 1 offsite. You must test and monitor the backups to ensure that in event of failure that the backups will actually restore
ASKER
Yes - happy to use rotation of drives - the windows R2 2012 will back up itself - but it wont back up the exchange server and app server? Do I need to set up individual backups for each of the servers. The premium backup suites will centrally backup the 3 servers but the cost is massive....Is the cheapest way to buy a rotation of drives for each separate server?
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You can always work with shadow copy...
But I have to agree with Brian. A hosted exchange would be a better solution if they aren't willing to back up properly.
But I have to agree with Brian. A hosted exchange would be a better solution if they aren't willing to back up properly.
Why don't you try this free exchange backup tool if you're searching a cost effective solution for backing up exchange server. Try this free utility.
Bob.
Bob.
Well, it's not exactly "free", it's a free 90 day trial.
ASKER
Managed to convince them to go for a hosted exchange server. Windows backup can then be used for the data. Thanks for your comments
Given your related question https://www.experts-exchange.com/questions/28828142/Windows-2008-R2-Exchange-Server-extend-partition.html, glad to see they went for a more modern approach.
But free version can be managed. I don't think there is any other cost effective option except Windows server backup.