Norton Ghost and open databases.

[Poppa_Meth]

I have a color matching computer at work running Matchrite Software which depends on a SQL server. I'm looking for a better backup solution for this PC than what it currently has, which is nothing. I know a lot of programs have problems backing up open databases like the one running through this SQL server so I'm try to find out if, when creating an image with ghost whether it will be able to correctly backup that database. I know Symantec Backup Exec is suppose to be able to do it but we were trying to go with something a little more cost effective since that program runs around $600. Any input is appreciated.

[jimmalenko]

Assuming that you'll be running the backup out of work hours, one workaround might be to stop the SQL Server services via batch file, then run the backup, then restart the services. This is a suggested method for backing up exchange if using ntbackup (as opposed to a "dedicated" software like Veritas BackupExec, which can stop the services automatically), so I can't see why it wouldn't work here.

[Poppa_Meth]

I ended up going with Acronis True Image. I just do a weekly image. I found that the only thing stored in the SQL database are customer records which I can backup through the program that uses the server. So I just back those up to a seperate file each time I image the rest of the drive. I suppose I could also run Acronis from disc in it's own OS and do a full image without having to worry what it running.

[jimmalenko]

Yeah, I'm trying out True Image ATM. Did a test run the other day and it looks like I'll be plonking down some cash for a license I think.

[INFRATOM]

Some SQL based programs encrypt or have password for the database, make sure you backup registery too if you are backing up separately.

[Poppa_Meth]

The backup the program makes is basically a glorified text file. Nothing encrypted about it, but I do make incremental backups of the registry too everytime I run CCleaner (once a week).