bkup2011manual

GFI Backup 2011 Administration and Configuration Manual

http://www.gfi.com E-mail: [email protected]

The information and content in this document is provided for informational purposes only and is provided "as is" with no warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and noninfringement. GFI Software is not liable for any damages, including any consequential damages, of any kind that may result from the use of this document. The information is obtained from publicly available sources. Though reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the data provided, GFI makes no claim, promise or guarantee about the completeness, accuracy, recency or adequacy of information and is not responsible for misprints, out-of-date information, or errors. GFI makes no warranty, express or implied, and assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of any information contained in this document. If you believe there are any factual errors in this document, please contact us and we will review your concerns as soon as practical. All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners. GFI Backup 2011 is copyright of GFI SOFTWARE Ltd. - 1999-2011 GFI Software Ltd. All rights reserved.

Last updated: 26 May 2011 Version number: BUP-ACM-3.00.02

Contents1 About GFI Backup1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5

5

Introduction ................................................................................................. 5 Using this manual ....................................................................................... 5 How does GFI Backup Work? ..................................................................... 8 Minimum system requirements and installation ......................................... 10 GFI Backup licensing ................................................................................ 10

2

Manage Backup Agents2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4

11

Introduction ............................................................................................... 11 Deploying GFI Backup Agents in Active Directory environments .............. 11 Deploying GFI Backup Agents manually ................................................... 16 Managing GFI Backup Agents .................................................................. 18

3

Backup and restore files and folders3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5

27

Introduction ............................................................................................... 27 Creating a new backup task ...................................................................... 27 File filters .................................................................................................. 42 Restoring backups .................................................................................... 44 Managing existing backups ....................................................................... 49

4

Disk image backup4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4

51

Introduction ............................................................................................... 51 Backup Task pre-requisites....................................................................... 51 Create a Disk image backup task.............................................................. 51 Restore a Disk Image backup ................................................................... 55

5

GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk5.1 5.2

59

Introduction ............................................................................................... 59 Download the GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk .................................... 59

6

Backup and restore Microsoft SQL Servers6.1 6.2 6.3

61

Introduction ............................................................................................... 61 Create a new Microsoft SQL backup task ................................................. 61 Restore a Microsoft SQL Server backup ................................................... 65

7

Backup and restore Virtualization environments7.1 7.2 7.3

67

Introduction ............................................................................................... 67 Backup and restore Microsoft Hyper-V ..................................................... 67 Backup and restore VMware ..................................................................... 73

8

Tape Backup and Restore8.1 8.2 8.3

79

Introduction ............................................................................................... 79 Creating a new tape backup task .............................................................. 79 Restoring a backup from tape ................................................................... 83

9

Status Monitoring9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4

85

Introduction ............................................................................................... 85 Performance dashboard ........................................................................... 85 Activity monitoring..................................................................................... 86 Daily backup report ................................................................................... 87

10

Reporting

93

10.1 Introduction ............................................................................................... 93 10.2 Filtering reports ......................................................................................... 93 10.3 Viewing and printing reports...................................................................... 95

11

Customize GFI Backup11.1 11.2 11.3 11.4 11.5 11.6 11.7

97

Introduction ............................................................................................... 97 General settings........................................................................................ 97 Backup and restore settings...................................................................... 99 Notification and Alerts settings ................................................................ 101 Product updates...................................................................................... 102 Agent Permissions .................................................................................. 104 Central backup location .......................................................................... 107

12

GFI Backup tools12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4

109

Import / Export Settings .......................................................................... 109 The Experience Guide ............................................................................ 110 Migrate Database to MySQL ................................................................... 110 Using GFI Backup from the command line .............................................. 111

13

Uninstalling GFI Backup13.1 13.2 13.3 13.4

113

Introduction ............................................................................................. 113 Uninstalling GFI Backup Agent manually ................................................ 113 Uninstalling GFI Backup Agents using Active Directory GPO.................. 113 Uninstalling GFI Backup Administration Console manually ..................... 114

14

Troubleshooting and support14.1 14.2 14.3 14.4

115

Introduction ............................................................................................. 115 Common Issues ...................................................................................... 115 Knowledge Base ..................................................................................... 119 Web Forum ............................................................................................. 119

14.5 Request technical support ...................................................................... 119 14.6 Build notifications .................................................................................... 120 14.7 Documentation........................................................................................ 120

15 16

Glossary Appendix 1 - Supported backup types16.1 16.2 16.3 16.4 16.5

121 125

Full backups ........................................................................................... 125 Incremental Backups .............................................................................. 128 Differential backup .................................................................................. 131 Stack backup .......................................................................................... 136 Microsoft SQL Server backups ............................................................... 140

17

Appendix 2 - Backup strategy guidelines

141

17.1 Setting up your backup strategy .............................................................. 141 17.2 Backup media - advantages and disadvantages ..................................... 142

18

Appendix 3 - Tape drives

145

18.1 Types of tape drives supported ............................................................... 145 18.2 Tape drive troubleshooting tips ............................................................... 145 18.3 Supported tape drive list ......................................................................... 147

19

Appendix 4 - Proxy settings

149

19.1 Introduction ............................................................................................. 149 19.2 Configuring the proxy settings................................................................. 149

20

Appendix 5 - Available environment variables

151

20.1 Introduction ............................................................................................. 151 20.2 Source variables ..................................................................................... 151 20.3 Destination variables............................................................................... 152

21

Appendix 6 - Supported Backup Types

153

21.1 GFI Backup Administration console ........................................................ 153 21.2 GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk......................................................... 154

22

Appendix 7 - Create a Shared Folder

155

22.1 Microsoft Windows XP/Microsoft Server 2003......................................... 155 22.2 Microsoft Windows 7/Microsoft Windows Server 2008 ............................ 156

Index

159

List of tablesTable 1 - GFI Backup services .............................................................................................. 9 Table 2 - Firewall ports to enable ........................................................................................ 10 Table 3 - Manage Agents: Agent status .............................................................................. 18 Table 4 - Manage Agents: Users tab ................................................................................... 22 Table 5 - Manage Agents: Commands in queue ................................................................. 25 Table 6 - New backup task: Run backup jobs...................................................................... 29 Table 7 - New backup task: Backup source ........................................................................ 31 Table 8 - New backup task: Destination .............................................................................. 32 Table 9 - New backup task: Backup type ............................................................................ 35 Table 10 - New backup task: Compression ......................................................................... 36 Table 11 - New backup task: Encryption ............................................................................. 37 Table 12 - New backup task: Notifications........................................................................... 38 Table 13 - New backup task: Actions .................................................................................. 39 Table 14 - New backup task: Scheduler .............................................................................. 41 Table 15 - Filter options ...................................................................................................... 43 Table 16 - Disk Image: Options tab ..................................................................................... 54 Table 17 - Microsoft SQL Server: Options tab ..................................................................... 64 Table 18 - Microsoft SQL Server: Options tab ..................................................................... 64 Table 19 - Microsoft SQL Server: Recovery options ............................................................ 66 Table 20 - Microsoft Hyper-V: Options tab .......................................................................... 70 Table 21 - VMware: Options tab .......................................................................................... 75 Table 22 - Available backup types....................................................................................... 83 Table 23 - Backup and Restore activity monitor .................................................................. 87 Table 24 - Backup and Restore operations ......................................................................... 87 Table 25 - Mail server settings ............................................................................................ 88 Table 26 - Filtering options in reporting ............................................................................... 94 Table 27 - General Settings options .................................................................................... 98 Table 28 - Backup and Restore settings............................................................................ 100 Table 29 - Central backup location settings....................................................................... 107

List of screenshotsScreenshot 1 - Microsoft Windows Server 2003: GFI Backup Agent files ............................ 11 Screenshot 2 - Microsoft Windows Server 2003: Add Standalone Snap-in.......................... 12 Screenshot 3 - Microsoft Windows Server 2003: Software installation package .................. 13 Screenshot 4 - Microsoft Windows Server 2008: GFI Backup Agent files ............................ 14 Screenshot 5 - Microsoft Windows Server 2008: Software installation package .................. 15 Screenshot 6 - Agent deployment: Select deployment method ........................................... 16 Screenshot 7 - Agent deployment: Deploy agents manually ................................................ 17 Screenshot 8 - Manage Agents: The Agents tab ................................................................. 18 Screenshot 9 - Manage Agents: Review and modify users.................................................. 21 Screenshot 10 - Manage Agents: User permissions ............................................................ 23 Screenshot 11 - Manage Agents: License type ................................................................... 24 Screenshot 12 - Manage Agents: View queue.................................................................... 25 Screenshot 13 - New backup task: General tab .................................................................. 28 Screenshot 14 - New backup task: Computers tab .............................................................. 29 Screenshot 15 - New backup task: Select Source, Specific paths ....................................... 30 Screenshot 16 - New backup task: Destination settings ...................................................... 32 Screenshot 17 - New backup task: Backup type ................................................................. 35 Screenshot 18 - New backup task: Compression ................................................................ 36 Screenshot 19 - New backup task: Encryption .................................................................... 37 Screenshot 20 - New backup task: Notifications.................................................................. 38 Screenshot 21 - New backup task: Actions ......................................................................... 39 Screenshot 22 - New backup task: Credentials ................................................................... 40 Screenshot 23 - New backup task: Actions ......................................................................... 41 Screenshot 24 - File filters................................................................................................... 43 Screenshot 25 - Full restore: Selecting Full-backup restore ................................................ 44 Screenshot 26 - Full restore: Select backup to restore ........................................................ 45 Screenshot 27 - Full restore: Summary ............................................................................... 46 Screenshot 28 - Item-level restore: Select Item level restore ............................................... 47 Screenshot 29 - Item-level restore: Select individual file/s to restore ................................... 48 Screenshot 30 - Item-level restore: Restore summary......................................................... 49 Screenshot 31 - Disk Image: General tab............................................................................ 52 Screenshot 32 - Disk Image: Source Tab ............................................................................ 53 Screenshot 33 - Disk Image: Options tab ............................................................................ 54

Screenshot 34 - Disk Image: Restore backup ..................................................................... 55 Screenshot 35 - Disk Image: Destination ............................................................................ 56 Screenshot 36 - Microsoft SQL Server: General tab............................................................ 62 Screenshot 37 - Microsoft SQL Server: Source Tab ............................................................ 63 Screenshot 38 - Microsoft SQL Server: Options tab ............................................................ 64 Screenshot 39 - Microsoft SQL Server: Restore databases ................................................ 66 Screenshot 40 - Microsoft Hyper-V: General tab ................................................................. 68 Screenshot 41 - Microsoft Hyper-V: Source ........................................................................ 69 Screenshot 42 - Microsoft Hyper-V: Options tab ................................................................. 70 Screenshot 43 - Microsoft Hyper-V: Restore ....................................................................... 71 Screenshot 44 - Microsoft Hyper-V: Select source .............................................................. 72 Screenshot 45 - VMware: General tab ................................................................................ 73 Screenshot 46 - VMware: Source Tab ................................................................................ 74 Screenshot 47 - VMware: Options tab ................................................................................. 75 Screenshot 48 - VMware: Select type of restore ................................................................. 76 Screenshot 49 - VMware: Select the source to restore ........................................................ 77 Screenshot 50 - New Backup task: Computers tab ............................................................. 80 Screenshot 51 - New Backup task: Select Source, Specific paths....................................... 81 Screenshot 52 - Select destination: Tape drive on computer running agent ........................ 82 Screenshot 53 - Restore backup wizard .............................................................................. 84 Screenshot 54 - GFI Backup performance dashboard ......................................................... 85 Screenshot 55 - Backup and restore activity monitoring ...................................................... 86 Screenshot 56 - GFI Backup Settings: Notifications tab ...................................................... 88 Screenshot 57 - Daily Backup Status report: Activity Overview summary............................ 89 Screenshot 58 - Daily Backup Status report: Status summary ............................................ 89 Screenshot 59 - Daily Backup Status report: Task Errors list .............................................. 90 Screenshot 60 - Daily Backup Status report: Task Warnings list ......................................... 90 Screenshot 61 - GFI Backup report screen ......................................................................... 93 Screenshot 62 -GFI Backup report screen .......................................................................... 95 Screenshot 63 - GFI Backup report ..................................................................................... 96 Screenshot 64 - GFI Backup Settings: General Tab ............................................................ 97 Screenshot 65 - Settings - Backup and Restore settings..................................................... 99 Screenshot 66 - GFI Backup Settings: Notifications tab .................................................... 101 Screenshot 67 - GFI Backup Settings: Updates tab .......................................................... 103

Screenshot 68 - GFI Backup Settings: User Permissions tab ............................................ 104 Screenshot 69 - GFI Backup Settings: Add new user permission ...................................... 105 Screenshot 70 - GFI Backup Settings: Central location tab ............................................... 107 Screenshot 71 - GFI Backup export administration console settings ................................. 109 Screenshot 72 - GFI Backup import administration console settings ................................. 110 Screenshot 73 - Migrate to MySQL ................................................................................... 110 Screenshot 74 - Uninstall GFI Backup .............................................................................. 114 Screenshot 75 - Device and media parameters view......................................................... 147 Screenshot 76 - Folder properties ..................................................................................... 156 Screenshot 77 - Share permissions .................................................................................. 157

11.1

About GFI BackupIntroduction

GFI Backup is a simple yet powerful backup and restore utility that enables you to back up and restore data stored on local and networked computers. GFI Backup offers the following main features:FEATURE DESCRIPTION

Backup to a wide variety of media

Including local and external storage devices, removable media such as CD/DVD/Blu-ray discs and Tape drives, and other locations such as NAS or FTP. Backup and restore Virtual machines and test environments. GFI Backup supports VMware Workstation, VMware Server and Microsoft Hyper-V Full-backup, incremental and differential backups as well as stack backups enable the setting up of different backups that cater for all needs. Create snapshots of your entire system and recover your operating system, installed applications and data. This disaster recovery feature enables you to recover from hardware failure, data corruption and theft. A user-centric design that emphasizes ease of use enables users to configure and use GFI Backup in the easiest way possible. Configure backups to run at specific intervals such as daily, weekly and every x days, hours, minutes. The availability of reports on all system functions, an activity dashboard, as well as screens showing backup, restore, and agent functions provide all the necessary information related to all your backup activity. User permission settings dictate the level of access to backup and restore features that are available to the users on their computers. These are fully customizable to cater for all requirements, from the most basic user to the most advanced. Backup and restore your Microsoft SQL server data and database schema quickly and easily with low business downtime. Backup and restore data on servers, computers, and laptops all over your network. Archive data to ZIP password (less secure but faster) or 256-bit AES encryption (more secure but slower) encrypted archives, ensuring that data cannot be maliciously compromised.

Backup Virtualization environments Complete set of backup types

Disk Image Backup and Restore

Ease of use Extensive scheduling controls Full visibility on systems operation

Granular control on user actions

Microsoft SQL server backup Network wide backup and restore capabilities Secure backup

1.2

Using this manual

This user manual is a comprehensive guide aimed at assisting you in configuring and using GFI Backup. It builds on the instructions in the GFI Backup Getting Start Guide and describes the use and configuration that you should do to achieve the best possible results. The GFI Backup Getting Started Guide can be downloaded from Online manuals. This manual contains the following chapters:

About GFI Backup

GFI Backup 2011 5

CHAPTER

DESCRIPTION

Chapter 1 Chapter 2

About GFI Backup Introduces this manual and provides the basic information on how to use it. Manage Backup Agents Provides information on GFI Backup Agents, how to deploy them in various environments, and how to remotely manage their configuration.

Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5

Backup and restore files and folders Gives detailed information on how to configure and manage backups. Disk image backup Describes the procedures that enable you to create and restore Disk Image backups. GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk Describes the procedures that enable you to backup and restore a Microsoft SQL Server database.

Chapter 6

Backup and restore Virtualization environments Describes the procedures that enable you to backup and restore virtual machines in Microsoft Hyper-V and VMware.

Chapter 7 Chapter 8

Tape Backup and Restore Provides information related to backups and restore operations to and from tape drives. Status Monitoring Describes the status monitoring options that GFI Backup delivers and will help you understand what is going on in your backup systems

Chapter 9

Reporting Deals with the reporting features of GFI Backup and shows you how to extract meaningful information from its operational information.

Chapter 10

Customize GFI Backup Describes how you can customize GFI Backup to suit your particular needs and requirements.

Chapter 11

GFI Backup tools Describes how to use GFI Backup tools. GFI Backup tools enable you to perform database migration, create recovery disk and import\export settings.

Chapter 12 Chapter 13

Uninstalling GFI Backup Describes the method through which GFI Backup can be uninstalled. Troubleshooting and support Provides you with all the necessary information on how to deal with troubleshooting any problems encountered while using GFI Backup. Also provides extensive support information.

Glossary Appendix 1 Appendix 2 Appendix 3

Glossary Defines technical terms used within GFI Backup Appendix 1 - Supported backup types Describes the backup types supported by GFI Backup. Appendix 2 - Backup strategy guidelines Provides recommendations on how to best back up your data. Appendix 3 - Tape drives Provides information about the tape drives supported by GFI Backup

6 GFI Backup 2011

About GFI Backup

CHAPTER

DESCRIPTION

Appendix 4 Appendix 5 Appendix 6

Appendix 4 - Proxy settings Provides information on how to set up proxy settings. Appendix 5 - Available environment variables Provides information on the available environment variables in GFI Backup. Appendix 6 - Supported Backup Types Provides information on the supported backup types in GFI Backup.

1.2.1TERM

Terms used in this manualDESCRIPTION

The following terms are used in this manual:Additional information and references essential for the operation of GFI Backup. Important notifications and cautions regarding potential issues that are commonly encountered. Bold text Step by step navigational instructions to access a specific function. Items to select such as nodes, menu options or command buttons. Parameters and values that you must replace with the applicable value, such as custom paths and filenames.

For any technical terms and their definitions as used in this manual, refer to the Glossary chapter in this manual.

About GFI Backup

GFI Backup 2011 7

1.3

How does GFI Backup Work?

Figure 1 - How does GFI Backup work

GFI Backup is composed of three interdependent components: GFI Backup Administration Console GFI Backup Agents GFI Backup Services

1.3.1

GFI Backup Administration Console

The GFI Backup Administration Console is installed at a central location with network access to all computers that require a backup solution. Deploy all the required agents on your networked computers and use the GFI Backup Administration Console to: Configure new backup tasks across multiple computers on your network Manage GFI Backup Agents deployed on your network Restore data on networked computers from a central location Centralize the storage of backups to a central network location or media Monitor the operation of tasks (backups and restores) across the whole network Generate reports on the operation of backups and restores.

8 GFI Backup 2011

About GFI Backup

1.3.2

GFI Backup Agents

The GFI Backup Agents are the components that manage backup and restore operations on client machines, including the computer where GFI Backup Administration Console is installed. Through user permissions set by the systems administrator, users can also configure their own backups, restores and sync operations on their workstations and computers, over and above those setup by the administrator via the GFI Backup Administration Console. This user manual provides detailed information related to the deployment and configuration of GFI Backup Agents. For detailed instructions on how to use the features included within GFI Backup Agents, refer to the GFI Backup Agent User Guide manual available from: Online manuals

1.3.3

GFI Backup Services

Table 1 below lists the Microsoft Windows services used by GFI Backup.Table 1 - GFI Backup services SERVICE NAME DESCRIPTION LOCATION AND NAME USER CREDENTIALS

GFI Backup 2010 Scheduler Service

The central component of the GFI Backup 2010 Agent. Executes the following tasks: Receives backup/restore instructions from the GFI Backup Administration Console Sends backup/restore status reports to GFI Backup Administration Console Manages backup/restore task scheduling Manages the execution of backup/restore tasks in the designated order Notifies GFI Backup Tray Agent about the GFI Backup Administration Console connection and task execution status.

:\Program Files\GFI\GFI Backup 2010\GFIBSched.exe

Local System

GFI Backup Attendant Service GFI Backup Administration Console

Verifies the status of installed agents.

:\Program Files\GFI\GFI Backup 2010\GFIBInst.exe :\Program Files\GFI\GFI Backup 2010 Administration Console\apache\bin\h ttpd.exe

Local System

The Apache HTTP service that enables the GFI Backup Administration Console.

User account specified during installation for the GFI Backup Admin Console. Local System

GFI Backup DiskImage

Sends and receives low-level messages while performing a Disk Image Backup.

:\Program Files\GFI\GFI Backup\DiskImage\Wi n32\oodiag.exe

About GFI Backup

GFI Backup 2011 9

1.41.4.1

Minimum system requirements and installationInstallation and getting started

For information related to the minimum requirements and installation procedures, refer to the GFI Backup Getting Started Guide manual available from: Online manuals.

1.4.2

Firewall ports to enable for GFI Backup

GFI Backup requires the ports listed in Table 2 below for the exchange of command instructions, control signals and access service messages. Ensure that the configuration of your firewall(s) allows the use of these ports by GFI Backup. For further information on how to configure the Windows Firewall refer to: http://kbase.gfi.com/showarticle.asp?id=KBID003879Table 2 - Firewall ports to enable PORT TYPE DESCRIPTION

5580

TCP

Enables the GFI Backup Administration Console to be remotely accessed via a web browser. Also enables the GFI Backup Agent(s) to communicate with the GFI Backup web services backend to register itself and receive instructions. Enables the GFI Backup Web Administration Console to be remotely accessed via a web browser over a secure HTTPS connection.

5543

TCP

1.51.5.1

GFI Backup licensingLicense types

GFI Backup licensing is based on the role that the deployed GFI Backup Agents will play in your backup strategy. GFI Backup Agents are licensed as follows: Servers: GFI Backup Agents assigned a server license enable you to perform server level operations such as backing up Microsoft SQL Servers and files/folders on systems running server Operating Systems such as Microsoft Windows Server 2003. Workstations: GFI Backup Agents assigned a workstation license can back up data from systems that are not running a server type of OS for example, Microsoft Windows 7. Agents running under a workstation license cannot, for example, be used to backup Microsoft SQL Server data.

Notwithstanding the license assigned to the installed agents, the GFI Backup Agent software is the same for all GFI Backup Agents and the license type assigned to an agent can be changed via the Licensing tab in the GFI Backup Administration Console.

1.5.2

Further information on GFI Backup licensing

For more information on GFI Backup licensing, refer to: Compare editions

10 GFI Backup 2011

About GFI Backup

22.1

Manage Backup AgentsIntroduction

GFI Backup provides a complete system that enables the management of all backup agents installed on networked computers. This chapter provides instructions on how to: Automatically deploy GFI Backup Agents in Active Directory environments using Group Policy Objects (GPO) Manually deploy of GFI Backup Agents. This is required in environments where GPO is not available, such as in Microsoft Workgroup-based networks Define the data access methods that GFI Backup will use to access files to backup including credential management Manage GFI Backup Agents.

2.2

Deploying GFI Backup Agents in Active Directory environments

Use Group Policy Objects to deploy the GFI Backup Agents network-wide in Microsoft Windows based environments where Active Directory is used to manage the network.

2.2.1

Deploying using GPO in Microsoft Windows Server 2003

1. Create a shared folder accessible by all computers where the GFI Backup Agent will be installed. For example: \\COMPUTERNAME\AgentLocationShare

Screenshot 1 - Microsoft Windows Server 2003: GFI Backup Agent files

2. On the computer where GFI Backup Administration Console is installed, navigate to:

Manage Backup Agents

GFI Backup 2011 11

:\Program Files\GFI\GFI Backup Administration Console\htdocs\agent. 3. Copy both GFIBackup2011.msi and setup.xml to the shared network folder. 4. Launch command prompt, type 'mmc.exe' and click Enter. 5. Click File Add/Remove Snap-in...

Screenshot 2 - Microsoft Windows Server 2003: Add Standalone Snap-in

6. Click Add and select Group Policy Object Editor snap-in. Select Add... and click Browse... 7. Select a domain policy to edit (typically Default Domain Policy) and click OK. 8. Click Finish to close 'Select Group Policy ' dialog. Close the 'Add standalone Snap-in' and 'Add/Remove Snap-in' dialogs.

12 GFI Backup 2011


9. Expand Domain Policy Computer Configuration Software Settings.

Screenshot 3 - Microsoft Windows Server 2003: Software installation package

10. Right click Software installation and select New Package... 11. In the Open dialog, locate the share where both GFIBackup2011.msi and setup.xml are located. When selecting the msi and xml files ensure that this is done through 'My network locations' so that the share name includes the full network share location rather than the local path. 12. Select Assigned and click OK 13. From your domain controller, load the Microsoft Windows Command Prompt and key in gpupdate /force to force a refresh of the local and Active Directory-based Group Policy settings. You may need to reboot the computers where agents will be deployed for the Group Policy to take effect. 14. After the Active Directory Group Policy changes have been effected (this may require some time depending on the network infrastructure): Launch GFI Backup Administration Console Select Agents tab, and choose the agents to authorize Click Authorize.

2.2.2

Installing GFI Backup Agents using GPO in Microsoft Windows Server 2008

1. Create or locate a folder that is shared and accessible by all the computers where the agent will be installed.


GFI Backup 2011 13

Screenshot 4 - Microsoft Windows Server 2008: GFI Backup Agent files

For example: \\COMPUTERNAME\AgentLocationShare 2. On the computer where GFI Backup Administration Console is installed, navigate to: :\Program Files\GFI\GFI Backup Administration Console\htdocs\agent. 3. Copy both GFIBackup2011.msi and setup.xml to the shared network folder. 4. From command prompt, type 'mmc.exe' and click Enter. 5. Click File Add/Remove Snap-in... 6. Click Group Policy Management Editor snap-in, select Add... and click Browse... 7. Select a domain policy to edit (typically Default Domain Policy) and click OK 8. Click Finish to close 'Select Group Policy Object' dialog. Close the 'Add standalone Snap-in' and 'Add/Remove Snap-in' dialogs. 9. Expand Domain Policy Computer Configuration Policies Software Settings.

14 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 5 - Microsoft Windows Server 2008: Software installation package

10. Right click Software installation and select New Package... 11. In the Open dialog, locate the share where both GFIBackup2011.msi and setup.xml are saved. When selecting the location of the msi and xml file, ensure that this is done through 'My network locations' so that the share name includes the full network share location rather than the local path. 12. Select Assigned and click OK 13. From your domain controller, load the Microsoft Windows Command Prompt and key in gpupdate /force to force a refresh of the local and Active Directory-based Group Policy Settings. You may need to reboot the computers where agents will be deployed for the Group Policy to take effect. 14. After the Active Directory Group Policy changes have been effected (this may require some time depending on the network infrastructure): Launch GFI Backup Administration Console Click Agents tab and select the agents to authorize Click Authorize.


GFI Backup 2011 15

2.3

Deploying GFI Backup Agents manually

For environments/computers where deployment via Active Directory Group Policy Objects is not possible (for example, workgroup environments or laptops that are not joined to the domain), the GFI Backup Agent can be manually downloaded and deployed on the respective computers.

2.3.1

Download the GFI Backup Agent

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Agents tab.

Screenshot 6 - Agent deployment: Select deployment method

2. Click Deploy Agent Deploy agents manually. 3. Click Download and save the GFI Backup Agent installation file. 4. Copy and install the GFI Backup Agent installation file on the client computers. This can be done using Remote Desktop Connection (RDP) or by physically logging in the client machines. If GFI Backup is configured to work in Custom data access method mode, the local computer users will be asked to key in their Microsoft Windows login credentials (username and password).

16 GFI Backup 2011


2.3.2

Printing or sending agent deployment instructions via email

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Agents tab.

Screenshot 7 - Agent deployment: Deploy agents manually

2. Click Deploy Agent Deploy agents manually. 3. Select one of the following options: Email instructions - launches your default email client with the GFI Backup Agent installation instructions. Send the instructions via email. Print launches the Print dialog to enable you to output the GFI Backup Agent installation instructions to printer. Forward the instructions to your user.


GFI Backup 2011 17

2.4

Managing GFI Backup Agents

GFI Backup provides all the required tools that enable the management of agents along with the retrieval of information about the respective agent status.

Screenshot 8 - Manage Agents: The Agents tab

Use the GFI Backup Administration Console Agents tab to perform the following actions: Authorize GFI Backup Agents Unauthorize GFI Backup Agents Delete GFI Backup Agents Configure GFI Backup Agent properties Re-synch GFI Backup Agents View Commands in Queue pending to be sent to the GFI Backup agent.

Using the GFI Backup Administration Console, you can also see the status of the backup agents. Table 3 below describes the different agent states.Table 3 - Manage Agents: Agent status AGENT LIST FIELD DESCRIPTION

Availability

Shows the availability of the installed agent. Possible states are: - Computer online - Computer offline

18 GFI Backup 2011


AGENT LIST FIELD

DESCRIPTION

Status

Shows the status of the installed agent. Possible statuses are: Authorized - The agent is authorized and functions normally. Unauthorized - The agent is unauthorized and its functionality is disabled. Pending - Status is displayed until a new computer (that is not authorized by default upon GFI Backup Agent installation) is either authorized, unauthorized or deleted. Not Updated - Status is displayed if the installed agent does not have the minimum required version. Updating - Status is displayed temporarily when: o o o o o o User credentials are yet to be stored by GFI Backup for future data access. Tasks are being resynchronized. The agent is yet to receive updated settings and/or security permissions. Deleting - Status is displayed temporarily when: The agent is deleted from the GFI Backup Administration Console but not yet uninstalled from the remote machine. The agent is uninstalled from the remote machine but not yet deleted from the GFI Backup Administration Console.

License Type

Shows the license type assigned to an installed agent. Possible types are: Server Workstation Unlicensed

For more information on licensing, refer to GFI Backup licensing section in this manual. Version Computer Workgroup/Domain IP Last Communication Last Activity Credentials Shows the deployed agents version Shows the computer name where the GFI Backup Agent is installed. Shows the workgroup or domain name of the computer where the GFI Backup Agent is installed. Shows the IP address of the computer where the GFI Backup Agent is installed. Shows the date/time when the GFI Backup Administration Console last communicated with the GFI Backup Agent. Shows the date/time of last activity (backup & restore) as well as the last task performed. Clicking the tasks name opens the task for review. Shows the credentials method used for backups and advises in case user password input is required.

2.4.1

Authorizing agents

By default, GFI Backup automatically authorizes newly installed Backup Agents. This enables you to immediately start using GFI Backup. For more information on how to customize the automatic authorization of GFI Backup Agents, refer to Agent Permissions section in this manual. To authorize previously unauthorized GFI Backup Agents:


GFI Backup 2011 19

1. Select Agents tab. 2. From the Agent list, select the checkboxes next to the agents to authorize. 3. Click Authorize

2.4.2

Unauthorizing agents

By default, GFI Backup automatically authorizes newly installed Backup Agents. This enables you to start using GFI Backup immediately. For more information on how to customize the automatic authorization of GFI Backup Agents, refer to Agent Permissions section in this manual. Unauthorizing agents enables you to deny computers the right to have data backed up and restored. To block an agent: 1. Select Agents tab. 2. From the Agent List, select the agents to unauthorize by checking the checkboxes next to the agents. 3. Click Unauthorize

2.4.3

Deleting agents

The Delete Agent feature enables you to delete installed agents from the Agents tab. Deleting an agent does not uninstall it from the client machine. When an agent is deleted from the Administration Console: The agent entry is removed from the list of agents within the Administration Console. The agent is disabled from communicating further with the GFI Backup Administration Console. On deleting an agent from the list, any system tray options allowed for the user/computer are grayed out except for Options and Help.

Enable deleted agentsIf the user has the required permissions to view the GFI Backup system tray, instruct the user to click Options and enable Connect and receive commands from the Administration Console. For more information on the GFI Backup Agent options, refer to the GFI Backup Agent User Guide. This manual is installed with the GFI Backup Agent or can be downloaded from: Online manuals. If the user is denied access to the system tray, re-install the agent. For more information on how to install an agent, refer to Managing GFI Backup Agents chapter in this manual To delete an agent: 1. Select Agents tab.

20 GFI Backup 2011


2. From the Agent List, select the agents to delete by checking the checkboxes next to the agents. 3. Click Delete .

2.4.4

Configuring agent properties

Backup agent permissions enable you to configure the users and users permissions associated with deployed agents. To configure agent permissions: 1. Select Agents tab. 2. From the Agent List, select one or more agents to configure by checking the checkbox next to the agents and click Properties .

Selecting multiple agents enables you to modify settings in the Users Permissions and License Mode tabs. Settings in the Users tab cannot be updated for multiple agents at the same time.

Screenshot 9 - Manage Agents: Review and modify users


GFI Backup 2011 21

3. Table 4 below describes the available options in the Users tab.Table 4 - Manage Agents: Users tab OPTION DESCRIPTION

Add User

Provide users with the ability to create backup and restore operations. To add a user: 1. Click Add User. 2. Key in Username, Password and Domain details. 3. Click Create New User button. User details can also be imported from a comma separated value (CSV) file. To import details from a CSV file, click Browse and locate the CSV file. Click Create New User. The CSV file must follow the following convention: "USER","PASSWORD","COMPUTER","DOMAIN", "WORKGROUP" for example: john,password,johncomputer,mycompanydomain,

Remove Reset Password Use credentials: Specified by end user Specified in the GFI Backup settings

Delete a user from the list. To delete users, select users and click Remove. Reset the password and force the users to key in a new password. Select the users to reset the password for and click Reset Password. Specify the type of credentials used by the GFI Backup Agent to access data on the computers on which it is deployed. Choose Specified by end user to use the credentials keyed in by the users on the computer where GFI Backup Agent is installed. This setting is recommended where, apart from user data, backups of registry data and computer settings are required. Also recommended if the computers to back up data from are not on a domain. Choose Specified in the GFI Backup settings to use the credentials keyed in at the GFI Backup Administration Console. Default value is Specified by end user.

22 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 10 - Manage Agents: User permissions

4. Select Users Permissions tab to configure the user permissions of the users configured within GFI Backup. These user permissions define the behavior of the GFI Backup Agents and the actions that users can perform while using the GFI Backup Agent. From the User permission list, choose the Permission Name associated with the user. Choose View details to view a summary of the permission chosen. For more information on how to add new, configure or delete user permissions refer to Agent Permissions section within the Customize GFI Backup chapter.


GFI Backup 2011 23

Screenshot 11 - Manage Agents: License type

5. Select License Mode tab to configure the license type for the selected agents. Change the permission type for the agents to modify from the drop-down in the License type column. Changing from Server to Workstation is not allowed for agents installed on computers with server operating systems (for example, Microsoft Windows Server 2003/2008) or that have server software (for example, Microsoft SQL Server) installed. 6. Click Save to save agent permissions.

2.4.5

Updating agents view.

To synchronize the GFI Backup Agent list with the actual data retrieved from the GFI Backup Agent click Re-synch

2.4.6

Viewing agents tasks

The Agents tab enables you to view all the agents deployed on the workstations to back up data from. To view a list of queued commands pending execution: 1. From the Agents tab, select the agents to view and click Commands in queue button.

24 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 12 - Manage Agents: View queue

2. From the Commands in Queue dialog, review the list of commands in queue for the selected agents. Table 5 below describes the available options in this dialog.Table 5 - Manage Agents: Commands in queue OPTION DESCRIPTION

Clear Queue Remove

Click this button to clear the queue of the selected agents from all tasks. Click the relevant hyperlink to clear the queue of the selected agents from that specific task.

3. Click Close to finish reviewing the queue.


GFI Backup 2011 25

33.1

Backup and restore files and foldersIntroduction

GFI Backup enables you to create tasks to backup and restore local files and folders. This chapter describes how to create a backup task, restore and manage existing backup tasks.

3.2

Creating a new backup taskThe wizard is also accessible from Backup and Restore tab New Backup.

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console home page, select New Backup option.

2. Select Files and Folders backup option. 3. In the Welcome to the New Backup Wizard dialog, select the backup media to use. Available options are: Backup to Local/External HDD or LAN/FTP location Backup to CD/DVD or Tape

Backup and restore files and folders

GFI Backup 2011 27

Screenshot 13 - New backup task: General tab

4. In the General tab, key in a backup name and, optionally, a description. Click Next.

28 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 14 - New backup task: Computers tab

5. From Run backup jobs for: drop-down select the set of users for this backup. Available options are described in Table 6 below. This option is not available when GFI Backup is configured to use One account for all. For more information on how to configure credentials for remote operations, refer to Backup and restore settings section within the Customize GFI Backup chapter.Table 6 - New backup task: Run backup jobs FIELD EXPECTED INPUT

All users on selected computers Specific users on selected computer(s) Users currently logged on selected computers

Backup operation will be performed for all users on the computers selected. Selecting this option will prompt the GFI Backup wizard to only display workgroups, domains or computers for which this backup will apply. Backup operation will be performed for only the selected users of the computers displayed. Selecting this option will prompt the GFI Backup wizard to display computers and their users.. Backup operation will be performed for users logged on selected computers at the time the backup task is triggered. Selecting this option will prompt the GFI Backup wizard to only display workgroups, domains or computers for which this backup will apply.

6. From the computers tree view, select the computers/users for which the new backup operation will be applicable and click Next. The computers tree view updates automatically on selecting the set of users for whom this backup task will be applicable.


GFI Backup 2011 29

Screenshot 15 - New backup task: Select Source, Specific paths

30 GFI Backup 2011


7. In the Source tab, select the source files/folders or drives to back up, and click Next to continue the setup. Available options are described in Table 7 below.Table 7 - New backup task: Backup source GROUP TYPE OPTION DESCRIPTION

Files/Folders

Specific Paths

GFI Backup backs up all data or specific file types located in the specified locations on the previously selected computers. To add a path: 1. In the Path to add to backup: field, key in a path or click Browse icon to select the path from where to back up data. 2. From the Apply to: drop-down select the domains, workgroups or computers for which the newly keyed in path applies and click Add to add path to list of paths to back up. NOTE: To delete a path previously keyed in, select the path and click Delete. 3. To configure the file types to back up, click the File Filters button and select the file types to include/exclude. For more information on how to configure file filters, refer to File filters section within Backup and restore files and folders chapter.. NOTE: Environment variables are supported. For a full list of available environment variables, refer to Appendix 5 Available environment variables section in this manual.

Files/Folders

Browse Computers

Navigate through the computers displayed and select folders/files by selecting the checkboxes next to the files and/or folders to backup. Other available options are: Backup the same items on all computers - Backup the selected items from all selected computers. Use this feature if you want to back up a folder that is present on all computers. Backup items only on selected computers Backup data only from the selected computer. File Filters - Select the file types to include/exclude. For more information on how to configure file filters, refer to File filters section in this manual.

Files/Folders

File Types

GFI Backup scans through the previously selected computers and backups the file types selected from this tab. 1. From the File Types area, select the file types to backup. 2. Click Customize to add or remove file types. 3. From the File type editor dialog, key in a File type label and File type extension to add to the list and click Add or Delete to add or delete file types respectively. Click Close to close the File type editor dialog.

Drives

Select the drives to backup

Choose the computer drives to back up by selecting the checkboxes next to the drive letters displayed. All the data on the selected drive for all computers selected is backed up. Operating System files (Microsoft Windows files) are not backed up and an error message stating that the source folder does not exist is returned for drives not found on the computers selected.


GFI Backup 2011 31

Screenshot 16 - New backup task: Destination settings

8. In the Destination tab, select the location where the backup will be saved by selecting an option from the Destination drop-down and define a destination path. The available options displayed depend on the backup medium selection done in the first step of the backup process, available options are described in Table 8 below.Table 8 - New backup task: Destination BACKUP MEDIUM OPTION DESCRIPTION

Local/External HDD or LAN/FTP location Local/External HDD or LAN/FTP location

Central Backup location

Stores the backup in the configured default location. This value is configurable from Settings tab Central Backup Location. For more information on how to configure the default path, refer to Central backup location section in this manual. Stores backup in a folder or an external hard disk drive attached to a computer where GFI Backup Agent is installed. Key in the path in the Destination field or select the Browse icon. NOTE: Environment variables are supported. For a full list of available environment variables, refer to Appendix 5 - Available environment variables section in this manual.

Folder / External HDD on computer running agent

32 GFI Backup 2011


BACKUP MEDIUM

OPTION

DESCRIPTION

Local/External HDD or LAN/FTP location

Local Area Network folder (LAN folder):

Stores backup in a local area network folder accessible from the computer where GFI Backup Agent is installed. Key in the path in the Destination field or select Browse. If authentication is required, select Folder is password protected checkbox and key in Domain, Username and Password. GFI Backup enables you to customize the maximum number of computers that can connect concurrently to the LAN folder. From the Connection Mode section, select the number of computers. Fully sequential - Only one computer is backed up at a time. Custom - The selected number of computers are backed up simultaneously.

NOTE: Ensure that the number of allowed connections on the LAN folder is not exceeded. Local/External HDD or LAN/FTP location FTP location Stores backup on a remote FTP location. Provide the following information to configure this backup: Host Name - Host name or IP address of the FTP server. Port - TCP/IP port used to connect to the FTP server. Default port is 21. User Name - User name used to be grant write access to FTP server. Password - The password used to grant access to the FTP server. Initial remote directory - The initial directory that the backup will go to on logging in the FTP server. Maximum connections - The number of computers that can be connected simultaneously to the FTP location. Use Passive Mode - Initiates FTP sessions in passive mode. By default, GFI Backup initiates FTP sessions in active mode.

CD/DVD or Tape

Tape

Stores backup on a tape drive attached to the computer where GFI Backup Agent is installed. Provide the following information to configure this backup: Please select the drive - Displays all the tape drives connected to the machine where new backup task is being configured. Use this list to select a tape drive. Choose the tape you want to use - Displays the tape media previously used with tape drive selected. Select New to configure a new backup. Erase - Erases the selected tape media. Refresh tape devices - Refreshes the tape devices attached to the machine where new backup task is being configured.

NOTE: For more information on how to configure tape backups, refer to Tape Backup and Restore section in this manual.


GFI Backup 2011 33

BACKUP MEDIUM

OPTION

DESCRIPTION

CD/DVD or Tape

Removable disk on computer running agent

Stores backup on a removable medium such as a USB drive or a memory card on the computer where the GFI Backup Agent is installed. From the Destination drive dropdown select the destination drive where the backup will be stored. In the Destination path field, key in the path on the removable drive where to store the backup. To format the media before backup, enable Format disk before backup.

CD/DVD or Tape

CD / DVD / Bluray disk on computer running agent

Stores backup on a CD/DVD/Blu-ray disk attached to the computer where GFI Backup Agent is installed. Provide the following information to configure this backup: Destination drive - The drive letter of the CD/DVD/ Blu-ray device. Disk label - Key in the disk label to assign to the disk used to back up data. Destination path - The destination path where backup data will be saved.

NOTE: To span multiple disks (in case where the data to back up results to be more than the size of the media selected) enable ZIP Compression and Split archives at options in the Options tab that follows this screen. Enable Erase disk before backup to erase the medium before copying. This option is only applicable in case of CDRW or DVDRW. If this option is not enabled and the re-writable disk provided is in UDF format, GFI Backup attempts to write the backup on the remaining space. If the space is not enough, GFI Backup will ask for a different disk with a greater capacity.

34 GFI Backup 2011


Click Next.

Screenshot 17 - New backup task: Backup type

9. In the Options tab, select Backup Type and configure the options described in Table 9 below.Table 9 - New backup task: Backup type OPTION DESCRIPTION

Full backup

Takes a full-backup each time the backup is executed. Any previously backed up files are overwritten with new data. For more information, refer to Full backups section within Appendix 1 - Supported backup types chapter. Takes a full-backup the first time it is run. In subsequent backups, only new and changed files are backed up. Files that have not changed since the last backup are retained. For more information, refer to Incremental Backups section within Appendix 1 - Supported backup types chapter. Takes a full-backup the first time it is run. In subsequent backups, new and changed files are backed up. Deleted files are either deleted on backup (nonencrypted backups only) or on restore (encrypted backups only). For more information, refer to Differential backup section within Appendix 1 - Supported backup types chapter. Stack backups are a type of a full-backup that does not overwrite existing data but keeps a number of previous backups on the backup media. The number of previous versions kept is configured in the Keep only the last n versions option, where n is a numeric value. For more information, refer to Stack backup section within Appendix 1 - Supported backup types chapter.

Incremental backup

Differential backup

Stack backup


GFI Backup 2011 35

Screenshot 18 - New backup task: Compression

10. To enable compression, from the Options tab select the Compression option and configure the settings described in Table 10 below.Table 10 - New backup task: Compression OPTION DESCRIPTION

Use ZIP compression Compression level Split archives at

Enable backup data compression. This compresses all data in a single file at the backup destination Sets the Zip compression level. Higher compression ratios result in smaller files; however, backups and restores will take longer to complete. Split backup files in specific sizes. This splits backups in manageable chunks that can then be stored on space-limited media For example, Split archived data in 690Mb backup files that can then be burned on multiple CD drives.

Self extracting archive Compress each file individually

Creates an executable file instead of a Zip file. Self-extracting archives do not require any third party tools to uncompress. Separately compresses each backup file. Choosing this option causes each file to be compressed individually as separate files

36 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 19 - New backup task: Encryption

11. To enable encryption, from the Options tab select the Encryption option and configure the settings described in Table 11 below.Table 11 - New backup task: Encryption OPTION DESCRIPTION

Use Zip password protection Use AES encryption

This is the faster of the two encryption methods and provides basic cryptographic security against tampering by unauthorized individuals. Key in a password. Uses a stronger encryption algorithm than ZIP encryption. This is GFI Backups own implementation of the standard 256-bit AES encryption. Key in a password.


GFI Backup 2011 37

Screenshot 20 - New backup task: Notifications

12. From the Options tab, select Notifications and configure the options described in Table 12 belowTable 12 - New backup task: Notifications OPTION DESCRIPTION

Notify on errors Notify on warnings Notify on completion of backup

Notifications are triggered when GFI Backup encounters errors that halt task execution. Notifications are triggered when GFI Backup encounters any warnings. Warnings do not stop the execution of a backup task. Notifications are triggered when GFI Backup completes a backup task.

Selecting Send email option without having the Backup email settings configured will result in GFI Backup notifying you of such issue at the GFI Backup Administration Console and giving you the option to set up an email address

38 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 21 - New backup task: Actions

13. From the Options tab, select Actions and configure the actions to perform. Actions enable GFI Backup to run a specific task (for example, an anti-virus scan) before or after a task is executed. It also provides GFI Backup with the ability to verify a backup, and to shutdown, log off, standby or hibernate the computer after a backup is complete. Available options are described in Table 13 below.Table 13 - New backup task: Actions OPTION DESCRIPTION

Run before backup starts

Instructs GFI Backup to run an application before starting the task. Select this option and key in or browse for a specific application. Enable Wait for applications to end to prevent task execution until the specified application terminates its operation. Instruct GFI Backup to run an application after a task ends. Select this option, key in or browse for a specific application. Enable Wait for applications to end to prevent task execution until the specified application terminates its operation. Verify the validity of the backup taken, comparing the destination with the source files. This is a further guarantee that all backups are taken properly. Enable and select an option from the dropdown to Shutdown, Log off, Put in Standby or Hibernate a computer after a backup task completes.

Run after backup ends On completion On completion of backup:


GFI Backup 2011 39

Screenshot 22 - New backup task: Credentials

14. From the Options tab, select Credentials and configure the account that GFI Backup will use to login GFI Backup agents. For information on how to configure the Master Account credentials, refer to Backup and restore settings within the Customize GFI Backup chapter. Click Next

40 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 23 - New backup task: Actions

15. From the Scheduler tab, set up the backup schedule that the new backup task being configured will follow and click Next to continue setup.Table 14 - New backup task: Scheduler OPTION DESCRIPTION

Run manually Run one time only On Windows startup On Windows shutdown On specific days of the week

Backup is triggered on a specific schedule but has to be started manually. Backup is run one time only at a specific date and time. Select the date and time values in the Run one time on and at fields. Backup is run at next Windows startup. Backup is run before next Windows shutdown. Backup is run at specific days and time or at system startup or shutdown. Select the days of the week when the backup will be run and select either a time from the On Time field or On Startup / On Shutdown fields. Backup is run at specific intervals every x days. Select the day interval from the Run every [] day(s) selector and set the backup days from the Set backup days options. Also, select a time from the On Time fields or On Startup / On Shutdown fields.

Run every few days


GFI Backup 2011 41

OPTION

DESCRIPTION

Run every few hours

Backup is run at specific hourly intervals. Select the hourly interval from the Run every [] hour(s) selector and the total number of runs per day from the Maximum runs per day selector. Set a starting time by selecting a time from the Starting time at: field and set the backup days through the Set backup days options. Instructs GFI Backup to reschedule missed tasks in case where, for example, a task is missed due to a computer being switched off. If a computer is in Standby or Hibernate, it is automatically switched on before a task starts. Select this option and key in the time (in minutes) to configure the backup to retry if the target machine is not accessible. Create a desktop shortcut to enable the manual startup of the backup operation being configured.

Reschedule this backup if missed Wake up computer from Standby/Hibernate before running backup Retry every x minutes if backup destination is not accessible Create Desktop shortcut

16. In the Summary of backup settings, review task summary and click Finish to finalize setup. To change any of the options, click Back, or select one of the GFI Backup tabs to change any of the backup settings. Files backed up using GFI Backup have their file permissions reset and new file permissions are inherited from the destination folder.

3.3

File filters

File filters enable GFI Backup to backup only specific file types for the selected paths. File filters are available when a backup task is created or modified. To configure file filters: 1. When creating or modifying a backup task, select Source tab and from the Backup source selector drop-down, select Specific Paths or Browse Computers. 2. Click File Filters button.

42 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 24 - File filters

3. From file filters list select the file filters to include or exclude from the selected paths. Configure the options described in Table 15 below.Table 15 - Filter options FIELD EXPECTED INPUT

Include ALL files (no filters active) Include ONLY the following file types Exclude temporary system files

Includes all files, ignoring the file type. Includes only selected file types. Excludes temporary system files from the files to be backed up by GFI Backup.


GFI Backup 2011 43

FIELD

EXPECTED INPUT

Exclude all temporary & useless files Apply inclusion/exclusion masks also to folder names:

Skips all temporary and useless files from being backed up by GFI Backup. Applies chosen inclusion/exclusion file filters to folder names.

4. Click New Filter to add a filter to the list. Key in a File type group and the file extension. 5. Click Close.

3.43.4.1

Restoring backupsIntroduction

GFI Backup enables you to restore full-backup sets or single/multiple items from a backup set.

3.4.2

Restoring complete backupsThe options mentioned in this section are also accessible from Backup and Restore Restore.

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Restore.

2. Click Next to continue. 3. From the source type, select Restore Other Backup and click Next.

Screenshot 25 - Full restore: Selecting Full-backup restore

44 GFI Backup 2011


4. In the Restore Type tab, select Full-backup restore and click Next.

Screenshot 26 - Full restore: Select backup to restore

5. From the Select Computer list, select the user for which to restore data. 6. From the list of backups displayed, select the backup to restore. If the computer where the backup will be restored does not respond to requests, GFI Backup displays a warning message. In this case, select: Change computer: clears warning message and enables you to select a different backup to restore. Deploy agent: enables you to re-deploy the GFI Backup Agent Open user manual: enables you to access the user manual for troubleshooting information.

7.Click Next to restore to the original location. Select Restore to a different location, key in the path and click Next to store the restore in a different location.


GFI Backup 2011 45

Screenshot 27 - Full restore: Summary

8. Review the restore information displayed and click Finish to start restore operation.

3.4.3

Restoring specific data itemsRestoring individual items from an encrypted backup is not allowed. In this case, restore a full-backup to an alternate location and retrieve the required files.

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Restore option. The options mentioned in this section are also accessible from Backup and Restore tab Restore. 2. Click Next to continue with Restore Backup Wizard. 3. From the source type, select Restore Other Backup and click Next.

46 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 28 - Item-level restore: Select Item level restore

4. Select Item-level restore and click Next.


GFI Backup 2011 47

Screenshot 29 - Item-level restore: Select individual file/s to restore

5. Select the user for which to restore data and from the list of backups displayed, select the backup to restore data from. Expand its contents, and select the checkboxes next to the items to restore. 6. Click Next to restore to the original location. Select Restore to a different location, key in the path and click Next to store the restore in a different location.

48 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 30 - Item-level restore: Restore summary

7.Review the restore information displayed and click Finish to start restore operation.

3.53.5.1

Managing existing backupsStarting a backup

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Backup and Restore tab. 2. Choose the task or tasks to start by selecting the checkboxes next to the task names. 3. Click Start .

3.5.2

Stopping a backup

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Backup and Restore tab. 2. Choose the task or tasks in progress by selecting the checkboxes next to the task names. 3. Click Stop .

4. Click Yes to confirm.


GFI Backup 2011 49

3.5.3

Modifying an existing backup

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Backup and Restore tab. 2. Choose the task to modify by clicking the task name to edit. 3. Select the tab or tabs with the relevant backup settings and perform any required changes. 4. Click Finish button to finalize settings.

3.5.4

Deleting a backup

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Backup and Restore tab. 2. Choose the task or tasks to delete by selecting the checkboxes next to the tasks names. 3. Click Delete . GFI Backup will ask you to confirm deleting selected tasks. Click OK to delete or Cancel to cancel task deletion.

50 GFI Backup 2011


44.1

Disk image backupIntroduction

A disk image is a copy of all data found in a hard disk partition to a single file (OMG). This enables you to restore an image backup data and safeguards you from disasters, hardware failure and data corruption. Use the GFI Backup Administration Console to: Create image backups of bootable system and data partitions using Microsoft Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS). For more information, refer to Create a Disk image backup task section in this chapter. Restore data partitions on machines running GFI Backup Agent. For more information, refer to Restore a Disk Image backup section in chapter. To restore bootable system partitions, use the GFI Backup Bootable Restore disk. For more information, refer to GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk section in this manual.

4.2

Backup Task pre-requisites

1. Ensure that the GFI Backup Agent is installed on the target computers. For more information on how to deploy and manage GFI Backup Agents, refer to the Manage Backup Agents section in this manual. 2. Microsoft Windows Disk Management, enables you to create volumes and initialize disks. When using this technology, to ensure that all partitions and disks are visible within GFI Backup Administration Console, you MUST restart the machine. For more information on Disk Management, refer to http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/Create-andformat-a-hard-disk-partition.

4.3

Create a Disk image backup taskThe options mentioned in this section are also accessible from Backup and Restore tab New Backup.

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console home page, select New Backup option.

2. Select Disk Image Backup option. 3. Select Backup to Local/External HDD or LAN/FTP location.

Disk image backup

GFI Backup 2011 51

Screenshot 31 - Disk Image: General tab

4. In the General tab, key in a backup name and, optionally, a description. Click Next. 5. In the Computer tab, select the computers for which the new image backup operation will be applicable and click Next.

52 GFI Backup 2011

Disk image backup

Screenshot 32 - Disk Image: Source Tab

6. In the Source tab, select the drives to back up, and click Next. File filters enable GFI Backup to backup only specific file types for the selected paths. For more information refer to File filters within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter. 7. In the Destination tab, select the location where the image data will be saved by selecting an option from the Destination drop-down. Define a destination path and click Next to continue setup. For more information on how to configure Backup destinations, refer to Table 8 - New backup task: Destination in this manual.

Disk image backup

GFI Backup 2011 53

Screenshot 33 - Disk Image: Options tab

8. In the Options tab configure the nodes described in Table 16 below.Table 16 - Disk Image: Options tab NODE DESCRIPTION

Backup type

For more information, refer to Table 9 - New backup task: Backup type within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter. Select the imaging method to use: Used sectors - Process only used sectors on a drive. Limiting the imaging process to used sectors, enables you to improve computer performance and use less disk space. Forensic - Process all sectors and makes an exact copy of the drives being backed up. All data is backed up, this enables you to recover deleted data and backup unsupported file systems.

Compression Encryption Notifications Actions Credentials

For more information, refer to Table 10 - New backup task: Compression within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter. For more information, refer to Table 11 - New backup task: Encryption within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter. For more information, refer to Table 12 - New backup task: Notifications within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter. For more information, refer to Table 13 - New backup task: Actions within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter. For more information refer to Creating a new backup task section within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter.

54 GFI Backup 2011

Disk image backup

Click Next to continue. 9. In the Scheduler tab, set up the backup schedule that the new backup task will follow and click Next. For more information on Scheduler options, refer to Table 14 - New backup task: Scheduler. 10. In the Summary of backup settings dialog, review the task set up and click Finish. To change any options, click Back, or select one of the GFI Backup tabs.

4.4

Restore a Disk Image backupThe options mentioned in this section are also accessible from Backup and Restore tab Restore.

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console main screen, select Restore option.

2. Click Next to continue. 3. From the source type, select Restore Image Backup. Click Next. 4. In the Restore Method tab, select: Full-backup restore to restore all partitions and data Item-level restore to restore specific files and folders. 5. From the Select Computer list, select the user for which to restore data and click Next.

Screenshot 34 - Disk Image: Restore backup

6. From the list of partitions displayed, select the partition to restore.

Disk image backup

GFI Backup 2011 55

If the GFI Backup Agent on the computer where the backup will be restored does not respond to GFI Backup requests, GFI Backup will display a warning message advising of such occurrence. In this case, select: Click Next. 7. When performing a Full-backup restore, select the destination where to restore the image and click Next. This dialog is not available when performing an Item-level restore. Change computer to clear warning message and select a different backup to restore Deploy agent to re-deploy the GFI Backup Agent Open user manual to access the user manual for troubleshooting information.

Screenshot 35 - Disk Image: Destination

8. In the Summary of backup restore dialog, review the restore information displayed and\\click Restore. 9. The wizard enables you to select whether to attach or delete current data on the destination disk. Select one of the following options:OPTIONAttach source driveDESCRIPTION

Current drive data is not deleted. GFI Backup attempts to locate unallocated disk space to restore the image data. Before restoring the image, ensure that the destination disk has enough unallocated hard disc space.

56 GFI Backup 2011

Disk image backup

OPTIONCompletely delete destination drive.

DESCRIPTION

Current drive data is deleted and GFI Backup restores the image data on the disk. Before restoring the image, ensure that the destination disk has enough hard disc space.

Click Restore.

Disk image backup

GFI Backup 2011 57

55.1

GFI Backup Bootable Restore DiskIntroductionPerform bare-metal restore on new or old computers, with same or dissimilar hardware. Restore bootable system and data partitions from image files; including image files created by GFI Backup Administration Console. For more information on image backups, refer to Disk image backup section in this manual.

The GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk enables you to:

For more information refer to the help documentation included with the GFI Backup Bootable restore Disk.

5.2

Download the GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk

To download the GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk: 1. Click Tools Create Bootable restore Disk. 2. Click Download and save the ISO file on your local machine. 3. Burn the ISO file on a blank CD/DVD. The CD/DVD can be used to launch the GFI Offline Restore Environment. For more information refer to the help documentation included with the GFI Backup Bootable restore Disk.

GFI Backup Bootable Restore Disk

GFI Backup 2011 59

66.1

Backup and restore Microsoft SQL ServersIntroduction

GFI Backup enables you to back up and restore Microsoft SQL Server databases. This provides you with the facility to backup databases as they are, at specific points in time, and will allow the restore of data to that specific instant.

6.26.2.1

Create a new Microsoft SQL backup taskBackup Task pre-requisites

1. Ensure that the GFI Backup Agent is installed on the computer hosting the Microsoft SQL Server. For more information on how to deploy and manage GFI Backup Agents, refer to the Manage Backup Agents section in this manual. 2. Ensure that the Microsoft Windows user account that will be used to backup Microsoft SQL Server has the required user rights over the Microsoft SQL Server to back up. 3. Ensure that the GFI Backup Agent is licensed as Sever. For more information on how to set up permission configuration, refer to Configuring agent properties section in this manual.

6.2.2

Configure a new Microsoft SQL Server backupThe options mentioned in this section are also accessible from Backup and Restore tab New Backup.

1. From the GFI Backup Administration Console home page, select New Backup.

2. Select Backup SQL Servers. 3. In the Welcome to the New Backup Wizard dialog, select the backup media to use. Available options are: Backup to Local/External HDD or LAN/FTP location Backup to CD/DVD or Tape

Backup and restore Microsoft SQL Servers

GFI Backup 2011 61

Screenshot 36 - Microsoft SQL Server: General tab

4. In the General tab, key in a backup name and, optionally, description. Click Next. 5. In the Computer tab, select the Microsoft SQL Server and click Next to continue the new backup setup. Only one Microsoft SQL Server at a time can be backed up.

62 GFI Backup 2011


Screenshot 37 - Microsoft SQL Server: Source Tab

6. In the Source tab, select the databases to back up, and click Next. Choosing the master database prevents choosing a backup option other than Fullbackup. 7. In the Destination tab, select the location where the SQL data is saved by selecting an option from the Destination drop-down. Define a destination path and click Next to continue setup. For more information on how to configure Backup destinations, refer to Table 8 - New backup task: Destination in this manual.


GFI Backup 2011 63

Screenshot 38 - Microsoft SQL Server: Options tab

8. In the Options tab, select the Backup Type and configure the settings described in Table 17 below.Table 17 - Microsoft SQL Server: Options tab OPTION DESCRIPTION

Full

GFI Backup takes a full database backup of the selected Microsoft SQL Server databases each time a backup is triggered. A full database backup may be restored to either the same or a new database, on the same or a different server. This provides flexibility when this type of database backup needs to be restored. GFI Backup first takes a full database backup and then a Differential database backup of the Microsoft SQL Server each subsequent time a backup is triggered. GFI Backup runs an automated schedule where a cycle of one full database backup and a subsequent set of Differential backups, is repeated according to the specified schedule.

Differential Backup Automatic

9. Browse and configure the nodes described in Table 18 below.Table 18 - Microsoft SQL Server: Options tab NODE DESCRIPTION

Compression Encryption

For more information, refer to Table 10 - New backup task: Compression within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter. For more information, refer to Table 11 - New backup task: Encryption within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter.

64 GFI Backup 2011


NODE

DESCRIPTION

Notifications Actions Credentials

For more information, refer to Table 12 - New backup task: Notifications within the Backup and restore files and folders chapter. For more information, refer to Table 13 - New backup task: Actions within the Backup and restore files

bkup2011manual

Documents

gfi backup agents

gfi backup bootable

gfi backup work

gfi backup licensing

backup agents2

daily backup

new backup task

disk image backup task