[comp.unix.questions] backing up an entire unix/xenix system

steve@icdi50.UUCP (Steve M. Ciarciello) (08/09/90)

Does anybody know of a utility that will back up an entire disk drive to
streaming tape under SCO Xenix or Unix.

The utility that I would like to have would allow the end user to backup 
every block of the disk thereby allowing a complete disk restore from the
tape. This would therefore include the operating system and all filesystems.

I ask this question because I come from a world of mini computers that would
backup everything. A restore of the entire system from this type backup was
very easy.

I would appreciate any help.

Thank you.

Steve Ciarciello
CompuData, Inc.
Philadelphia, PA

bob@consult.UUCP (Bob Willey) (08/11/90)

In article <4@icdi50.UUCP> steve@icdi50.UUCP (Steve M. Ciarciello) writes:
>Does anybody know of a utility that will back up an entire disk drive to
>streaming tape under SCO Xenix or Unix.
>The utility that I would like to have would allow the end user to backup 
>every block of the disk thereby allowing a complete disk restore from the
>tape. This would therefore include the operating system and all filesystems.
>I ask this question because I come from a world of mini computers that would
>backup everything. A restore of the entire system from this type backup was
>Steve Ciarciello
>CompuData, Inc.
>Philadelphia, PA

This is a common problem.  Using tar and the like will only give
you mixed results.  You must be very careful.
We have been using CTAR from MicroLite with EXCELLENT results.
It does a complete backup of ALL files including character, fifo, etc.
It also comes with a utility to create a rootable/bootable floppy.
This creates all the necessary utilities, and YOUR kernel and device
drivers so that if you have a crash.
1. Replace disk
2. Boot up from rootable/bootable CTAR disk
3. Pick NEW Disk (format and all done)
4. Restore option (use most recent tape)
5. Reboot system and you are up and running.

Much easier that the horse X#$% you have to do using tar, and reinstalling
Unix/Xenix.
You can reach MicroLite  on uunet!mlite!info   uunet!mlite!tom
We have this installed at ALL customer sites and would not leave
home without it.  We consider it a mandatory option.

Hope this helps.

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