Desktop and server backups
I. Access
ARCS does not provide direct backup for desktops therefore, users may backup their desktop data to the Isilon storage server. ARCS will create user storage space under the lab storage area purchased by the lab PI. ARCS will then create a server connection on the users desktop so the user may copy over data.
II. Best Practices
It is obvious that backing up your data is the most important practice, how to backup is done is up to the user. ARCS recommends backing up to the Isilon server. The Isilon server is a device designed for high availability to the user, provides data protection and backup via snapshot. As an added level of backup the Isilon server is also backed up to tape. Users may choose to backup their desktop systems using local backup software ie: Time machine or windows backup to a locally connected external disk or tape drive. Users choosing local backup should run a test restore to insure that their data can be restored.
Restoration of data
Users requiring a restore shall submit a tech request and provide the following information:
- Full path of the of the file or folder to be restored.
- Provide a date or date range as to when the file or folder was last updated.
- Provide a destination folder if different than the original location.
ARCS shall be responsible for the backup of all servers and storage located in the ICRC data centers only. Backups will be conducted on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. Newly installed servers will be added to the backup schedule prior to deployment into production.
III. Rules
Users choosing to backup their desktop using Time machine or windows backup may do so with the understanding that ARCS is not responsible for the recovery of data. Users are not to use the Isilon server to store Time machine or windows backup files because the Isilon server does not support these backup formats. For users that do not backup and experience a hard disk failure, ARCS will not be responsible for the recovery of data. If the data is critical ARCS can recommend a vendor that specializes in data recovery at the expense of the user or PI.
Servers that are not located in the ICRC data center will not be added to the ARCS backup schedule. Special cases maybe granted with proper approval and/or payment for our services.
