Recommendation for a backup solution needed

[adepaolis]

Hi,

I am really like this website and forum. I have a question and am looking for some help since I am new to NAS.

Currently we backup to tape using the retrospect software for windows. We have a dedicated backup server and there is a retrospect client installed on any computer that needs to be backed up.

We are looking for a way to move to a disk based backup with the advent of drives getting cheaper, faster and reliable.

I have about 60 GB of data spread across various workstations and servers that I would like to backup on a daily basis. The workstations are currently windows xp, and the servers are windows 2003 standard.

I would like to have a reliable automated scheduled backup that will connect to each of these computers over the network and perform a backup on a daily basis. I would like to keep perhaps 2 weeks worth of backups, with the ability to restore files from any day of the 2 weeks.

In addition to this daily backup, another requirement is to also perform an offsite backup.

I was thinking I need a NAS with the ability to connect external esata/usb drives to perform the offsite backup. I would prefer not having to purchase a dedicated backup computer with licensing and and backup software.

Does anyone have any recommendations for me?

 

[thiggins]

NASes won't do the backup versioning that you want. They will just serve as an inexpensive data store. But if you have backup software that you like on each client, then you don't need the NAS to handle it.

A single drive NAS can handle 60 GB of data with ease. It could also automatically back up to an attached drive each day.

 

[claykin]

Consider a cloud storage provider such as Jungledisk. 60GB is not a lot of data and with Jungledisk you're looking at ~$15/mo to cover your desktops and server. You'll get versioning, backup of in-use/locked files, delta backup (backup only changes of large files) and deduplication when using their Vault backup service (included).

You can still use a local NAS a backup destination, but keep it simple since Jungledisk will do the heavy lifting.

Jungledisk can even do more such as sync and provide remote access to files. If you want granular security control look at Jungledisk Workgroup edition. Cost is nearly the same.

My 2 cents.

 

[gbjack]

Respect Express HD that comes with iomega iX2-200 backup files with restore point. I do not know if it means backup versioning.

 

[Tarrant1701]

Since you work in a Windows environment, have you thought about a Windows Home Server for your backup needs?

Example (but you can build your own if desired):
http://www.hp.com/united-states/campaigns/mediasmart-server/

With WHS you can automatically schedule backups of your client computers:
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/windowshomeserver/protect.mspx

As for the off-site backup, you have your choices:
1. manual backup to external drive and take it offsite
2. use of a cloud storage service like Mozy, Amazon S3, etc
3. buy a second NAS or WHS and install it offsite to back up your primary NAS