Backup media management

MODULES_LOADED_ON_BOOT="dm-snapshot"

The backup process

The following steps describe FSE backup process in general. Except for the volume snapshot creation, which is platform specific, the process is the same on all platforms:

1.FSE server is internally suspended. Operation of all running Partition Managers is temporarily blocked, in order to achieve a consistent state of all File System Catalogs (FSCs) and other entities that will be backed up.

2.Data from transaction log files of Hierarchical Storage Management Databases (HSMDBs) on the FSE clients are committed to the main databases, and then the transaction log files are removed. This action achieves the required consistency of HSMDBs.

3.Transaction log files of File System Catalogs (FSCs) are committed to the main databases. This action achieves the required consistency of FSCs.

4.Snapshots of the volumes with FSE databases and system files are created.

5.FSE server is resumed. Operation of all running Partition Managers is unblocked so that Partition Managers can process existing job requests and accept new ones.

6.Backup data is collected, archived, and compressed into a single backup image file, which is temporarily stored in FSE disk buffer. On all supported platforms, backup image files use the

.tar.bz2 file format.

7.According to the specified backup destination, the backup image is copied to disk (local or remote disk volume or share), tape (FSE medium in the backup FSE media pool), or both.

8.Transaction log files of File System Catalogs (FSCs), which were committed in step 3, are removed.

9.Snapshots of disk volumes are removed.

NOTE: While other steps of the backup process typically only take a few minutes, the step 6 is usually long lasting and may take considerable amount of time. The main reason is data compression.

In the FSE implementation, only one backup process can be running at the same time. Starting an additional backup process is prevented.

The backup progress is recorded in the backup.log file. Once backup is finished, it reports barcodes of the backup FSE media where backed up data is stored. Backup start and stop times are written to the fse.log file and can help estimate the time needed for backup.

If tape backup will be used as a backup destination, you have to configure a single backup FSE media pool and prepare backup FSE media. In order to ensure safety of backup data and prevent data loss, special attention is required with management of backup FSE media.

NOTE: As an FSE administrator, you are responsible for preparation, allocation, and correct usage of backup FSE media as well as for keeping track of already used backup media and their contents. Backup media management tasks are crucial for successful implementation of your FSE backup policy.

In case the FSE backup policy includes scheduled backups, the options --mediumand --initof the fsebackup command help organizing and reusing backup FSE media.

CAUTION: If old media will be reused for FSE backup storage, you must ensure that they are not damaged or too worn out. Failing to do so may result in the unusable FSE backup image and - consequently - permanent data loss on the FSE server.

HP StorageWorks File System Extender Software user guide 223

File System Extender (FSE) specifications

HP File System Extender (FSE) is a sophisticated solution designed to optimize data storage management for enterprises that deal with large volumes of unstructured data. This technology addresses the challenges of data growth and the need for effective data retention strategies, enabling organizations to store and manage their information more efficiently.

One of the main features of HP FSE is its ability to intelligently migrate data between primary and secondary storage. By utilizing policies that determine when to move infrequently accessed files to lower-cost storage environments, FSE helps reduce the strain on primary storage systems and saves on costs associated with high-performance storage solutions. This tiered approach to data management ensures that organizations can access the data they need quickly while still maintaining an efficient overall storage architecture.

Another notable characteristic of HP FSE is its seamless integration with existing storage infrastructures. The solution works with a variety of storage systems, allowing organizations to utilize their current investments without the need for significant changes to their infrastructure. This interoperability is powered by advanced technologies that facilitate data migration and retrieval, ensuring a smooth transition for organizations looking to optimize their storage strategies.

Additionally, HP FSE is equipped with robust reporting and analytics capabilities. This functionality provides organizations with insights into their storage usage, helping them understand data patterns and optimize their storage environments accordingly. By having visibility into which files are accessed most frequently and which are rarely used, organizations can make informed decisions on data retention policies and storage management.

Security is paramount in data management, and HP FSE addresses this concern by implementing advanced data protection features. This includes data encryption, secure access controls, and compliance with industry regulations, ensuring that sensitive information is safeguarded throughout its lifecycle.

Overall, HP File System Extender is a comprehensive data storage solution that combines intelligent data management, seamless integration, insightful analytics, and robust security features. By leveraging these capabilities, organizations can efficiently manage their unstructured data, lower costs, and enhance operational efficiency, making it an invaluable tool in today’s data-driven landscape.

HP File System Extender (FSE) manual Backup media management, Backup process

Models: File System Extender (FSE)

MODULES_LOADED_ON_BOOT="dm-snapshot"

The backup process