TSM and VMFS NetApp Vols

[seangar]

Can TSM (IBM Tivoli)) linux client backup ESX VMFS volumes ?

If installed on a ESX server can it also backup any VMFS volumes on NetApp, attached by iSCSI ?

Anyone done this ?

TIA

Sean

[Deli]

Perhaps with the TSM Option of vmbk.pl from www.vmts.net.

Regards,

Deli

[davidbarclay]

It can, but service console backups are not a good idea.

Look at esxRanger and VCB.

Dave

[seangar]

I dont think we can use VCB, it requires FC correct ? Were a iSCSI shop.

[petedr]

If you want to take a look at another option you can check out esXpress. Backups run in the the virtual space using VBAs ( Virtual Backup Appliances ). It doesn't require VCB.

[kix1979]

Actually, VCB will work with iSCSI. The issue is that VMware does not support it, so if you have issues you are on your own.

[seangar]

Care to elorbate ? Any info appreciated !! Links or prev experience. Dont have allot of time to RTFM, which in this case is 4-5 manuals that encompases the many issues.

I have to get a plan in place ASAP and the testing confirmed.

My idea is to NOT install a guest backup software, instead \~freeze~ the VMs, and NetApp SNAP them. Then port that the set of oldest SNAPS offsite for Disaster Recovery of a whole LUN. Can I use the NetApp SNAP to also to restore 1 VM if it fails from corruption or hacking to a previous state several SNAPS ago ?

TIA

S

[edgrigson]

This might be too late if you were on a tight schedule, but as of ESX v3.0.2 and VCB 1.0.3, VCB now supports iSCSI.

http://www.vmware.com/support/vi3/doc/releasenotes_esx302.html