VCB+MSSQL

[Hieu_Cao]

When running VBC v1.5 to backup a full VM that run on ESX 3.5 (build 110268) that has MSSQL 03/05 running on Win2K3 x32 and x64, are MSSQL services required to be shutdown before initiating a vcb backup job? I've read the VCB guide (update 2) for ESX3.5, but it did not mention anything about this.

Thanks for your input.

[nabsltd]

MS SQL does not have to be shut down, but the database file might be inconsistent.

The best thing to do is schedule a backup of the database file using SQL Server Management Console and then you will get a consistent file.

Basically, do the backup to the same disk (but a different directory) and set up options to delete after just one or two backups (to save disk space). Then, use VCB to back up the VM. The backup file created my SQL Server will be usable as a restore.

[Hieu_Cao]

Your input is very helpful, thank you.

[Dave_Mishchenko]

Here are a few threads you might find helpful. As suggested, I would also recommend adding SQL native backups to disk into the mix. That way you don't have to worry about the possibility of inconsistencies when using snapshots.

Disabling the VCB SYNC Driver (LGTO_Sync)-MS SQL http://communities.vmware.com/message/922967

VCB and SQL Server - pause SQL Server I/O - http://communities.vmware.com/message/961891

[Hieu_Cao]

Thanks Dave for your response. It' very helpful.

[depping]

Dave is right, for SQL / AD / Exchange or any other database you should disable the syncdriver or use the new VSS snapshotting capabilities.

Duncan

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