Backup and Restore

By default, SBS 2003 R2 creates a Group Policy that is applied to workstations that join the domain. This policy redirects the users’ “My Documents” folders to the server running SBS 2003 R2 in the \\servername\Users\%username% folder. These folders are part of the automatic backup process on your server. Most Windows-compatible applications store information in the “My Documents” folder. If you have applications that store information elsewhere, instruct your users to save the information into the “My Documents” folder; this will ensure that the information is backed up on a regular basis.

When you complete the To Do list, you have configured your server to automatically back up your important data and business information. It is also a good idea to make a backup of your production system before making any substantial changes. It is recommended you make a full backup, including the system state, before you upgrade your software. You should also test the backup by restoring one or two files to check that your backup completed properly. See the whitepaper “Backing Up and Restoring Windows Small Business Server 2003” on the Microsoft Web site.

Yes. SBS 2003 R2 uses the Volume Shadow Copy service to back up all files opened by SQL Server and Exchange Server, even when the services are running.

You can back up your server to a tape drive, local hard disk, CD or DVD drive, removable hard disk connected to the server, or to a network share within the domain. Consult the Windows Server Catalog to determine which hardware is compatible with Windows Server 2003.