Ultimate Guide to VSS Backup and Restore on Windows

Ultimate Guide to VSS Backup and Restore on Windows

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Setting Up Backups on a Windows Server Using OpenSSH 2.1 Downloading OpenSSH Windows binaries 2.2 Setting up an inbound rule for Port 22 2.3 Creating an SSH folder in the Windows account profile 2.4 Executing commands on PowerShell 2.5 Initiating the backup configuration process
3. Configuring Automatic Backups 3.1 Setting up the backup command 3.2 Testing the backup configuration 3.3 Performing an actual backup
4. Restoring Backups 4.1 Restoring backups from a remote server via SFTP 4.2 Restoring local backups
5. Troubleshooting Backup Configurations and Restores 5.1 Taking the output of the backup show command 5.2 Sharing error codes and backup show output
6. Conclusion

Setting Up Backups on a Windows Server Using OpenSSH

In this article, we will guide You through the process of setting up backups on a Windows server using OpenSSH. Backups are essential for data security and disaster recovery, and OpenSSH provides a secure method for transferring files between remote servers. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to ensure a smooth backup setup process.

Introduction

Welcome to the Support Series by Vectra! In this series, our engineers address common customer requests and guide you in resolving them. In this particular video, we will provide a demo on how to set up backups on a Windows server using OpenSSH from a Vector Brain. We recommend subscribing to our Channel and checking back for new videos in this series.

2. Setting Up Backups on a Windows Server Using OpenSSH

2.1 Downloading OpenSSH Windows Binaries

To begin, you need to download the latest OpenSSH Windows binaries. These binaries are available on GitHub. Once downloaded, log in as the administrator and extract the files to the C:\Program Files\OpenSSH directory. This is where the binaries should be located.

2.2 Setting up an Inbound Rule for Port 22

In order to enable secure file transfers over OpenSSH on a Windows server, you need to set up an inbound rule for Port 22. Both SCP and SFTP use Port 22, so this step is crucial. Open the Control Panel, navigate to System and Security, and then select Windows Firewall Advanced Settings. Add a new rule for Port 22 over TCP and mark it as "allow the connection."

2.3 Creating an SSH Folder in the Windows Account Profile

Next, you need to Create an SSH folder in the Windows account profile. This folder will store the authorized keys required for the backup configuration. Navigate to C:\Users\Administrator (replace "Administrator" with your username) and create a folder called "SSH." Inside this folder, create a file named "authorized_keys."

2.4 Executing Commands on PowerShell

Open PowerShell as an administrator to execute the necessary commands for the backup setup. Copy the commands provided in the KB article and paste them in PowerShell one by one. These commands include installing the SSH agent service, fixing host file permissions, setting user permissions, and configuring services for automatic startup.

2.5 Initiating the Backup Configuration Process

Once the system is set up, you can initiate the backup configuration process. Follow the commands Mentioned in the KB article for setting up automatic backups via SFTP. Make sure to specify the target server IP, the path for backup storage, and the necessary credentials. The configuration process will take a few minutes to complete.

3. Configuring Automatic Backups

3.1 Setting Up the Backup Command

To configure automatic backups, you need to set up the backup command with the Relevant details. This includes specifying the user, target server IP, backup storage path, copy mode (SFTP), and rotation settings. Ensure that the SSH authorized key is included in the authorized_keys file created earlier.

3.2 Testing the Backup Configuration

Before performing an actual backup, it is recommended to test the backup configuration. Run a backup test command to ensure that the temporary file is copied successfully to the destination server. Verify the presence of the temporary file at the specified location.

3.3 Performing an Actual Backup

Once the backup configuration is tested, you can proceed with performing an actual backup. Execute the backup run command to initiate the backup process. The time taken for the backup depends on the file size and network speed. Once the backup is complete, you can check the latest backup using the appropriate command.

4. Restoring Backups

4.1 Restoring Backups from a Remote Server via SFTP

If you need to restore backups from a remote server, you can use the SFTP method. Run the restore run command with the SFTP mode, username, host IP address, and file details. This process may take some time, depending on the file size. Verify the successful restoration of the backup file at the desired location.

4.2 Restoring Local Backups

For restoring local backups, use the restore run command with the appropriate flags and backup number. Specify the local restore mode (iph local) and the backup number to restore the desired backup. This method is useful when the backup is stored locally on the same server.

5. Troubleshooting Backup Configurations and Restores

5.1 Taking the Output of the Backup Show Command

If you encounter any issues during backup configurations or restores, it is recommended to take the output of the backup show command. This command provides helpful information for troubleshooting. Capture the error code or message displayed during the backup process.

5.2 Sharing Error Codes and Backup Show Output

When seeking assistance for backup-related problems, share the error codes or error messages encountered during the backup process. Additionally, include the output of the backup show command for better analysis and troubleshooting. This information will assist support teams in resolving any issues efficiently.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, setting up backups on a Windows server using OpenSSH is essential for data protection and recovery. By following the steps mentioned in this guide, you can configure automatic backups and restore them successfully. If you have any further queries or issues, don't hesitate to reach out to our support team for assistance.

Highlights:

• Learn how to set up backups on a Windows server using OpenSSH
• Ensure secure file transfers with Port 22 inbound rule
• Configure automatic backups and perform backup tests
• Restore backups from remote servers or locally
• Troubleshoot backup configurations and share error codes
• Protect your data and ensure disaster recovery
• Reach out to our support team for further assistance

FAQ:

Q: What are the benefits of setting up backups? A: Setting up backups helps in ensuring data security and enables quick recovery in case of any data loss or system failures.

Q: Can I configure automatic backups using OpenSSH on a Windows server? A: Yes, you can set up automatic backups using OpenSSH on a Windows server by following the provided instructions.

Q: How can I troubleshoot backup configuration issues? A: If you encounter any issues during backup configurations, take the output of the backup show command and share the error codes or messages with our support team for assistance.

Q: Can I restore backups from remote servers? A: Yes, you can restore backups from remote servers via SFTP using the appropriate restore run command provided in the guide.

Q: Is it possible to restore local backups on the same server? A: Yes, you can restore local backups using the restore run command, specifying the local restore mode and the backup number.

Q: What should I do if I face any issues during the backup process? A: If you experience any issues during the backup process, capture the error codes or messages displayed and share them with our support team along with the backup show output for further analysis and troubleshooting.