CHOOSE A SERVER FOR BACKUP
The loss of information on websites or work systems due to hacks, equipment failures, or employee mistakes can result in harm to the company’s business reputation and erode trust among partners. Backing up websites, important data, content, and system settings can minimize the risk of such scenarios. The backup process is performed on designated backup servers.
BACKUP SERVER
Backing up data, applications, and files can be done through a backup server, which is specialized hardware equipped with the necessary software to manage and preserve the information. Backup servers can be deployed locally or remotely, based on the need.
Backup ensures that the data can be returned to its original state as of the time of backup, and the degree of redundancy can be determined based on specific requirements. Although restoring the applications or equipment may take some time, full access to the saved information is guaranteed. It is advisable to create multiple copies of the backup records, such as using two disks, to minimize the risk of loss in case of unexpected events.
WHAT THREATENS TO THE DATA ON A SERVER
In the field of IT, there are numerous significant dangers to server-stored data, such as:
1. Total loss of information resulting from human error or physical damage to equipment.
2. Disruptions in the information system’s communication channels, making the data unavailable to users.
3. Cyberattacks, misconfigurations, or infrastructure flaws that bring operations to a standstill and allow third parties access to sensitive information.
4. To ensure the security of information systems, security perimeters must be established and servers must be isolated from external influences. This can be done by placing the servers in separate network segments with mandatory traffic filtering through specialized gateways. If server segmentation is not possible, secure SSL/TLS communication channels must be established, such as through the cloud which typically provides protection against DDoS attacks and has a built-in firewall.
BACKUP SERVER REQUIREMENTS
A backup server should have the following features:
1. High-performing processors for fast information recording
2. Adequate disk memory to store all copied data with a surplus
3. Reliable fault tolerance through the use of RAID, which is a more cost-effective, fast, and reliable solution compared to pricier SSDs
4. The capability to connect to multiple uninterruptible power supplies.
The HPE DL380 Gen8 two-unit servers with a 12-disk basket and Dell’s R720 model have been deemed the best options for setting up backup servers.
HOW TO CHOOSE AND DEPLOY A BACKUP SERVER
The backup server must have a robust infrastructure with high throughput capabilities and the ability to store large amounts of data on hard disks. The data should be categorized based on its level of importance and frequency of backup, to ease the burden during the backup process. To streamline the backup process, it is important to consider solutions that are user-friendly and don’t require extensive administration or multi-level system configurations.
Backup functions are provided by the following applications:
1. Bacula. Using the various modules in this program allows expanding a working functionality, changing copying scenarios and connecting several users to single storage at the same time, or performing the fine-tuning and setting the backup tasks as a separate job;
2. Backuppc is a backup solution available for Windows and Linux. It can be installed on a dedicated server or virtual private server (VPS) as the backup server. Data is transferred to a central server, and configurations can be made using the protocol or secure shell (SSH).
3. The Depo Storm 1360v2 is an entry-level server that is energy efficient and has solid performance. It utilizes the latest low-power Intel processors and can accommodate up to 8 hard drives and 2 drives. This server is suitable for use with the Windows operating system.
4. Wialon is a system that offers comprehensive database security and is designed for simultaneous use across multiple servers. To ensure smooth operation, the servers must be equipped with “black boxes” as the hard disk space on the backup server should match that of the main server. This is crucial in the event of a main server failure, as work must be quickly restored.
5. Backup-exec is a software solution created for the Windows operating system. It enables the creation of backup copies of any type of data, including databases, which can be stored on physical media or in virtual and cloud environments. Integration with products from other manufacturers is supported.
6. Qnap is a backup server that boasts fast backup speeds and large storage capacity. It allows for backup to external drives, remote servers, and cloud storage, including third-party providers. The backup server uses various network protocols to ensure compatibility and accessibility to files from computers with different operating systems.
7. Vtiger is a cloud technology that generates backups for local storage or network resources.
Backup servers can be deployed as a local or remote solution. A local backup server is located within a local network, while a remote server is placed outside of it, such as in a data center. The use of a remote server requires the installation of backup agents on each machine that requires backup or on selected machines. However, with the agentless backup of virtual machines or when using a local server, the installation of agents is not necessary.
The deployment of a remote media server has the following advantages:
1. Improved security of IT infrastructure and faster restoration of the system in case of failures.
2. Protection of multiple geographically dispersed sites or information systems is easier and more cost-effective using a remote backup server.
3. Network performance is improved as backup time is reduced.
4. Increased accessibility of technology. A remote backup server located in a data center is more convenient if the office lacks the necessary IT infrastructure or network resources.
Backup servers can be set up as physical hardware or as virtual machines that simulate an operating system outside the IT infrastructure.
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
It is advised to buy server hardware with ample usable capacity and to estimate annual data growth beforehand. To avoid overspending on new equipment, reliable HPE and DELL servers of older generations with a warranty of up to 5 years can be purchased.