Without proper and systematic data backup, a disk failure could result in total loss of the HPSS data. Backing up the Encina SFS volumes containing HPSS metadata is essential for disaster and media-failure recovery.
Backing up HPSS metadata involves backing up the following:
SFS server configuration and restart files
It is very important that DCE and Encina data are backed up properly to avoid data loss. In addition to backing up DCE and Encina data, it is advised that full system backups be done periodically while HPSS, Encina, and DCE are not running.
The Encina documentation referenced below should be consulted in order to obtain a complete understanding and explanation of issues and procedures associated with enabling full recoverability of Encina data.
Encina Structured File Server Administrator's Guide and Reference.
Encina Server Administration: System Administrator's Guide and Reference.
As a safety net, in case the backup procedures mentioned in this section are not properly followed or a damaged tape, it is recommended that a complete data dump (e.g., using the dd command) be made of all Encina volumes on a regular interval. HPSS and Encina SFS must both be brought down before these raw backups can be made.