SEPsesam User Manual

SEPsesam User Manual Author: Ewald Einwanger SEP AG 83629 Weyarn

Copyright © 2004 by SEP AG. All rights reserved.

$Id: user_manual.tex,v 1.31 2006/11/09 10:29:28 sesam Exp $

Any form of reproduction of the contents or parts of this manual must be granted by SEP AG in writing.
During completion of this manual SEP put high diligence on correctness and usability of the information contained in it.
SEP AG cannot issue a guarantee on the contents of this manual.


Hint
This user manual describes all SEPsesam functions.
There may be restrictions on some functions due to the actual licence structure used .
In order to release the restictions please contact your distributor or SEP AG info@sep.de.

1. Overview

2. The Basic Components of SEPsesam

2.1. Drives

2.2. Loader

2.3. Client

2.4. Media

2.5. Task

2.6. Appointment

2.7. SEPsesam Principle

2.8. Grouping of SEPsesam Components

2.8.1. Location
2.8.2. Drive Group
2.8.3. Task Group
2.8.4. Media Pool
2.8.5. MasterSesam

3. Media Administration

3.1. Media Strategy

3.2. Examples of Different Media Strategies

3.3. Change of Media

3.4. Archive Adjustment

4. The SEPuler - an Appointment Calendar

4.1. Schedules

4.2. Prioritisation of Appointments

4.3. Blocking Appointments

4.4. The SEPsesam Backup Day

5. Backup

5.1. Full-, Diff-, Inc-, Copy-Backup

5.1.1. The Archive Bit

5.2. Parallel Backups

5.3. Administrative Data for the Savesets

6. Restore

6.1. Storage Time Limit, Media Cycle

6.2. Selective Restore

6.3. Generation Restore

6.3.1. Example: Generation Restore with Differential Backups
6.3.2. Example: Generation Restore with Incremental Backups
6.3.3. Example: Mixed Types

6.4. Restore of the Registry

7. Basic Configuration

7.1. Step 1: Clients

7.1.1. Setup of the SSH-Client

7.2. Step 2: Storage Hardware - Drives and Loaders

7.3. Step 3: Media - Data Carriers

7.4. Step 4: Backup Tasks

7.5. Step 5: Schedules

7.6. Step 6: Backup Start

7.7. Directory Structure of SEPSesam

8. The SEPsesam GraficalUserInterface (GUI)

8.1. File

8.2. Activities

8.2.1. Restore, Restore wizard
8.2.2. Immediate Start Backup
8.2.3. Immediate Start Restore
8.2.4. Immediate Start Media Action
8.2.5. Immediate Start Command
8.2.6. Restart of Backups

8.3. Configuration

8.3.1. Setting Defaults
8.3.2. Media Types
8.3.3. Remote Server
8.3.4. Interfaces
8.3.4.1. PRE-Interface
8.3.4.2. POST-Interface
8.3.4.3. Alarm- and Notify- Interface
8.3.4.4. Disaster-Interface
8.3.4.5. Disaster-Recovery for Windows
8.3.5. Memory monitor
8.3.6. Support - Protocols
8.3.7. Support - Email Settings

8.4. Help

8.5. Components

8.5.1. Topology
8.5.1.1. Server Properties
8.5.1.2. Location Properties
8.5.1.3. Client Properties
8.5.1.4. Treating of Firewalls
8.5.2. Loader
8.5.2.1. Button Properties Loader and New Loader
8.5.2.2. Button Contents
8.5.2.3. Button Loader Action
8.5.3. Drives
8.5.3.1. Button Properties
8.5.3.2. Button New Drive Group
8.5.3.3. Button New Drive
8.5.3.4. Button Drive Action
8.5.4. Media Pools
8.5.5. Media
8.5.5.1. Button Properties Media
8.5.5.2. Button Initialization

8.6. Tasks

8.6.1. By Clients
8.6.1.1. Exclude list
8.6.1.2. The Special Backup Types
8.6.2. By Groups
8.6.3. Backup Schedules

8.7. Scheduling

8.7.1. Schedules
8.7.1.1. Properties Schedule - New Schedule
8.7.1.2. New Backup Event
8.7.1.3. New Media Event
8.7.1.4. New Command Event
8.7.1.5. Access Restriction of Command Appointments
8.7.2. Appointments
8.7.3. Calendar Sheet

8.8. Backups

8.8.1. By State
8.8.2. Statistic

8.9. Restore

8.9.1. By State

8.10. Monitoring

8.10.1. Processes
8.10.2. Drives

8.11. Logging

8.11.1. State
8.11.2. Daily Protocol

9. Appendix

9.1. Exchange 2000 Server

9.1.1. Installation - System Requirements
9.1.2. Backup
9.1.3. Truncate Log Files
9.1.4. Restore
9.1.4.1. Restore of an Exchange Instance to Another Exchange Server
9.1.4.2. Recovery of a Corrupted Exchange Database
9.1.5. Single Mailbox
9.1.5.1. Installation - System Requirements
9.1.5.2. Backup
9.1.5.3. Restore

9.2. MS-SQL Server

9.3. SuSE Linux OpenExchange Server

9.3.1. Installation - Requirements
9.3.2. Offline Backup
9.3.3. Online Backup
9.3.4. Restore
9.3.5. Single Mailbox Restore

9.4. Overview of Regular Expressions






1. Overview

SEPsesam is an automatic data dackup system for heterogeneous network environments. All standard tapes, disk devices and loader devices (robots) can be used as backup devices.
Furthermore it is possible to backup on hard disks, diskettes and other similar directory-oriented storage media.
In order to easily and effectively form the configuration of the system, a design, based on the following six basic components was chosen.

Drive
Local or remote storage device
Loader
Robot loading the media from/to the drive
Client
Computer from which the data is backed up
media
Carrier of the saved Data
Task
Description of a Backup or Restore
Appointment
Start time of different activities

Other features:

2. The Basic Components of SEPsesam

2.1. Drives

Drives are defined as devices, which are used for data storage. They are either local drives connected to the SEPsesam server itself or remote drives, connected to another computer, so that the backup data are not transferred over the network.

Advantage
Already available drives at the customer's clients can be used by SEPsesam as well, which contributes to a decrease in the network load.

Disadvantage
In cases of disaster the remote drives possibly are located in an area of destruction, thus the storage media may be affected, too.

Remote drives allow location of storage devices used by SEPsesam in areas geographically distant from one another. Thus it is no longer necessary to store the corresponding storage media at one central place ( Wide Area Network WAN ).

In addition to tape drives as the classical storage devices with permanently increasing capacities and transfer rates, SEPsesam can also use directory-oriented devices such as disks for backup.
These are treated as virtual drives, because here the physical drives and media are simulated using directories and files on disks, thus there is no difference for the user compared to real tapes (except during configuration).
The type DISK_HARD is fully simulated on the disk, DISK_CHNG is a disk device with changeable media ( e.g. diskettes ), where the media really must be moved ( manually or with a loader ).

2.2. Loader

Drives can be integrated into loaders, which (through of robot devices) move a media from a magazine into a drive and vice versa. They enable fully automated operation of the backup system during long periods of time.
One also distinguishes between local loaders and remote loaders.
Corresponding to virtual drives there is also a virtual loader, which is always configured as number 0, and serves all DISK_HARD drives. For this, media are not physically moved but entries in specific files are made which then control the data streams.

2.3. Client

Clients are computers within a network whose data are to be backed up.

2.4. Media

A media is defined as a data carrier, on which the backed up data are recorded and preserved in case of emergency.
These can be cassettes in tape devices, CDs in CD-Writers or even virtual media as directories on hard disks.
SEPsesam only uses media which are listed in its media archive.

2.5. Task

A task is the description of a backup or restore.

2.6. Appointment

Time control of SEPsesam is performed through schedules, i.e. all activities are entered into a central appointment calendar and a program - the so called SEPuler {(Details)} - ensures that these appointments are executed at the right time.

2.7. SEPsesam Principle

To start a backup one needs a task containing information about which files of which client are to be backed up, a media inserted into a drive and an appointment when this will happen.

These basic components must be configured during initialisation phase using the graphical user interface GUI of SEPsesam described below {(Details)}.

The following picture exemplifies the embeddinging of SEPsesam within a network and the usage of the various storage devices.


2.8. Grouping of SEPsesam Components

Some of the objects described above can be arranged hierarchically and organized into groups.

2.8.1. Location

A location is an organisational set of clients. Each client must be assigned to a certain location, which is benficial for clarity, especially with WAN-applications. Locations can be hierarchically organized in further sub-locations.

2.8.2. Drive Group

Usually several drives are used for one SEPsesam Server-System. If the drives are of one and the same type, it is preferable to collect them into a group and to direct the backup to the group. In this way backup is performed automatically on a currently free drive. Especially in case of a drive failure, each backup is automatically executed only on the available drives. This is particularly true in cases of big loaders with several drives.

2.8.3. Task Group

Pooled tasks within a task group can be activated with a single appointment.

2.8.4. Media Pool

For the administration of media relating to the different types of backup data, backup sources (e.g. file backup, DB backup) or drive types, media must be inserted into media pools. SEPsesam requires the configuration of media pools and therefore the organisation of media in such units.

2.8.5. MasterSesam

The top group is implemented with the concept of MasterSesam. This is using the assumption that in a network ( mostly WAN ) there are several standalone 'backup islands' each around a SEPsesam-Server, and these should be controlled from a certain SEPsesam-Server.
This server is called MasterSesam.
Each SEPsesam-Server can be defined as MasterSesam.
The MasterSesam has some additional buttons and setup possibilities in its interface so that the user can link to the GUIs of the other SEPsesam-Servers from it.

3. Media Administration

All media whichare to be used by SEPsesam must be registered under a non-ambiguous identification called label in the media archive. The corresponding tools are provided through the GUI ( initialization, properties, etc. ).

3.1. Media Strategy

The media SEPsesam is working with are administered in media pools using non-ambiguous labels. The labels consist of the pool name and a five-digit number which SEPsesam assigns within the pool (this is the reason why a pool name never is allowed to end with 5 digits). In the GUI a new media pool is created under GUI:Components-Media Pools-New Media Pool. An important parameter of a media pool is Locked Days, i.e. for how many days a media of this pool must not be used, therefore preserving the backup data. This is a number of days and called EndOfLife = EOL.Details)}
Locked until
Date from which it can be used again = backup day + Pool_EOL {(Details)}
Drive Number
of the drive used for backup
Media Type
is compatible only with certain drive types
Loader
in whose magazine is currently loaded
Slot
of the magazine
Occupancy
in MB, GB, etc.
Error Count
accumulated count of potential error messages of the drive for this media


The fields "`Write Protection, Loader"' and "`Slot"' can be changed directly by the user.
The write protection of a media prevents its repeated usage and potential data loss. Write protection is preserved until the user cancels it manually .
EOL-write-protection however is automatically controlled by SEPsesam.

Loader and slot numbers must always coincide with the real location of the media. Especially with smaller loader types (without barcode readers) it is technically impossible to recognize manual changes in the magazine. Media can be taken out of or put into the magazine at random, without the program recognizing this. Thus after such changes it is absolutely necessary to either start an archive adjustment {(Details)} (via the GUI) or to enter the correct data (loader and slot numbers) directly into the archive.

Usage of media is triggered by media appointments. They execute the strategies for media selection, reinitialize the media and prepare them for the respective backups.

If there is only a media pool connected to a media appointment, then the so-called GET_OLDEST-strategy is always applied trying to preserve the data on the media for the longest possible time.
.
The name of spare-pools start with SPARE_. Here, initially unused media are inserted and kept for later use. For each type of drive an adequate spare-pool has to be generated and filled with the compatible media {(Details)}.
These spare-pools are used by media appointments in case of not being able to get a media from the actual pool. A media is moved from the compatible spare-pool to the pool currently requested by the backup. Thus the media migrate from spare-pools to the working pools resulting in a dynamic buildup of these pools depending on the amounts of data.
SPARE-pools can be used for automatic insertion of new media into working media pools. For big loaders the media are pre-initialised with labels of SPARE-pools at SEP AG saving time during the installation phase. The media then migrate to the working pools on the production system.

Usage of media can be influenced in follwing ways:

3.2. Examples of Different Media Strategies

In the matrices of the examples below, the date of a virtual month is given in downward direction, to the right the appropriate media label is shown. In the two-dimensional field, date information for the newly calculated EOL-day can be identified.

Example 1
Full-backups, Pool_EOL=3, OLDEST-Strategy. EOL in the Matrix are initially set to 0 (blank)

Dat
Typ
S1
S2
S3
S4
S5
S6
S7
S8
1
F
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
F
4
5






3
F
4
5
6





4
F
4
5
6
7




5
F
4
5
6
7
8



6
F
4
5
6
7
8
9


7
F
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

8
F
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
9
F
12
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
10
F
12
13
6
7
8
9
10
11
11
F
12
13
14
7
8
9
10
11


During the first day media S1 is used, during the second S2 is used, and so on, until all eight media have been used once. Locking date is set to current date + Pool_EOL, i.e. after this date reuse of media is allowed again. For S1 the locking date is set to 1 + 3 = Day 4 for example.
At the ninth day, media S1 is reused in accordance with the OLDEST-strategy {(Details)}. This way, a cycle is created in which full backups remain preserved for a maximum of seven days.

Example 2
Full backups, Pool_EOL=14, OLDEST-Strategy
shows appearance of a blocking caused by increase of the Pool_EOL.

Dat
Typ
S1
S2
S3
S4
S5
S6
S7
S8
1
F
15
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
F
15
16






3
F
15
16
17





4
F
15
16
17
18




5
F
15
16
17
18
19



6
F
15
16
17
18
19
20


7
F
15
16
17
18
19
20
21

8
F
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22


Blocking of backup occurs due to increase of Pool_EOL. At the ninth day there is no longer any unlocked media, since S1 will be unlocked at the 15th day of the month. Therefore, there must be a minimum of 15 media provided for the strategy selected above.


Example 3
Full and incremental backups, Pool_EOL=3, OLDEST. I-backups demand that the preceding F and all intermediate I must be preserved; this is achieved by moving the locking date of the media storing the F and I-backups to the one of the current media.

Dat
Typ
S1
S2
S3
S4
S5
S6
S7
S8
1
F
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
I
5
5






3
I
6
6
6





4
I
7
7
7
7




5
I
8
8
8
8
8



6
F
8
8
8
8
8
9


7
I
8
8
8
8
8
10
10

8
I
8
8
8
8
8
11
11
11
9
I
12
8
8
8
8
12
12
12
10
I
13
13
8
8
8
13
13
13

Note that for example the locking dates of S1 have increased.

Example 4
Full and differential backups, Pool_EOL=3, OLDEST. D-backups demand that the previous F must be preserved; this is achieved by moving the locking date of the media storing the F-backup to the one of the current media .

Dat
Typ
S1
S2
S3
S4
S5
S6
S7
S8
1
F
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
D
5
5






3
D
6
5
6





4
D
7
5
6
7




5
D
8
5
6
7
8



6
F
8
5
6
7
8
9


7
D
8
5
6
7
8
10
10

8
D
8
5
6
7
8
11
10
11
9
D
12
5
6
7
8
12
10
11
10
D
12
13
6
7
8
13
10
11

3.3. Change of Media

Storage media for the above strategy can be prepared by SEPsesam at any time using media appointments .
Media appointments are activated as a user-defined event by the SEPuler {(Details)} or as an internal media appointment. Internal appointments were started at the beginning of a backup or during a backup when no media for requested media pool is prepared or in case of reaching end-of-media (EOM).
If the user does not define any media appointment at all, only internal media changes are in effect.

For using media appointments SEP recommends the following procedure:

3.4. Archive Adjustment

The comparison between a loader-magazine, where the media are kept and the SEPsesam database (media archive) is called archive adjustment. An archive adjustment is mandatory whenever the filling of a loader magazine was changed. Especially after insertion of new media, which up to that point were not registered by SEPsesam, it is necessary to execute an adjustment.
Using option Automatic new Entry the still unrecognized media are entered into the archive automatically.
The adjustment is started via GUI:Components-Loader-Content-Archive Adjustment.

4. The SEPuler - an Appointment Calendar

The time control of SEPsesam is implemented by the SEPuler - an electronic assistant. The SEPuler is permanently active in the background and checks if appointments entered are due to be executed. If so, then the execution of the corresponding program is started. In case of a recurring appointment the next execution time is calculated using the corresponding schedule and the appointment is rewritten to the calendar.

Possible types of appointments are backup, media, arbitrary command and newday.

Also the "'Immediate starts"' of the GUI are initially posted to the calendar as unrecurring appointments .

In the SEPsesam GUI the appointment configuration always starts - even if it is a one-time event - with the so-called schedule.

It offers a natural view of the appointment calendar with the completed, executing and future appointments under GUI:Scheduling-Calendar Sheet
For already completed backups, restores etc. detailed information can be entered from here {(Details)}.

4.1. Schedules

The cyclic behaviour of SEPsesam is implemented by the schedules already mentioned above. The schedule is a scheme describing the recurrence of an appointment allowing cycles from minutes to years as well as absolute and relative scheduling ( also including the "'one-time execution"' ).
Presence of a schedule is not enough to execute a program. Only by configuring appointments sing a schedule, entries are made in the appointment calendar which then are executed by the SEPuler.
A modification in the schedule effects all appointments working with this schedule.
A schedule can be deactivated via the GUI.
A schedule can be used for any number of appointments; a particular task ( Backup, Restore, etc. ) can have appointments in several schedules, whereby overlaps are resolved by means of priorities.

4.2. Prioritisation of Appointments

In order to implement more complex appointment strategies schedules have distinct priorities. Lowest priority is 1 , the highest is 10. Within a SEPsesam-day {(Details)} it is evaluated whether there is a similar appointment with higher priority already executed or planned. In such a case, the execution of lower prioritized appointments is suppressed. For a certain backup task several schedules can be created overlapping during some days. Depending on their priorities they are mutually suppressed ( not executed).
Schedules with priority=0 are always executed.

The "'similarity"' of appointments is differently arranged for the particular types:

Schedule
Time
Prio

DAILY
20:00
1
daily incremental
WEEKEND
18:00
2
on weekend differencial
MONTHEND
21:00
3
on month end full

4.3. Blocking Appointments

A blocking appointment is an appointment of any type with high priority which inhibits other appointments of equal type to become active due to its presence and higher priority.
It is used for specific prevention of appointments on specific days ( holidays etc. ).
Attention A blocking appointment is created by marking the corresponding field during the configuration of an appointment.
Example
A backup appointment executing the task CSRC executes daily with priority 2.
A second backup appointment also for CSRC is set up for 24.12. each year only, and it is a blocking appointment with priority 9.

At 24.12. the priority check recognizes that a higher prioritized backup CSRC exists (namely the blocking appointment) and blocks the execution of the backup of the daily appointment. The blocking appointment only sends a message that it was activated.

4.4. The SEPsesam Backup Day

SEPsesam enables reorganisation of the system by the NEWDAY-appointment.
SEPsesam defines the time interval between 2 NEWDAY-appointments as a backup day .
Since there is only one such appointment, it is preset after the installation and only its schedule can be modified ( including deactivation ).

Having set a daily NEWDAY-appointment at 08:00, the backup day extends until the morning of next day at 08:00. Backups, which run after midnight - the change of the real date - are administered at the date of the previous day.
Especially the protocol files of SEPsesam are created with the date of the backup day.

Example Backup day from 10.9.1999 08:00 till 11.9.1999 08:00
A backup at 11.9.1999 00:40 will be assigned to backup day 10.9.1999 and appears in daily protocol 19990910 .
Backups can be arranged in shifts.

A NEWDAY-appointment executes the following tasks additionally:

5. Backup

Automatic Backups are triggered by the SEPuler {(Details)}. Data specified in task are copied to saveset on the current media. SEPsesam creates additional data ( listings, media segmentation data) so that a quick and convenient restore is possible.


The user defines which data in his network should be backed up and when.
Considerations referring to media, media pools and backup type ( full, differential, incremental ) have to be made. According to that the administrator configures backup tasks, schedules and appointments.
If requested the PRE- and POST-interface must be configured task-specifically, too.

5.1. Full-, Diff-, Inc-, Copy-Backup

The Full Backup copies all source files as they are. During restore this version of the files can be easily copied back from the media, but it consumes a large amount of data.

The Differential Backup only copies those files changed after the latest full backup. Thus a smaller amount of files must be transfered, the backup time is shorter. In order to restore the whole data source, one must first copy back the files from the full backup before copying those of the differential one.
Therefore it is a two-step process which is automatically scheduled and started by the Generation Restore {(Details)} of SEPsesam.

The Incremental Backup copies files changed since the previous backup regardless of its type. This of course generates the smallest amount of data. To restore the whole data source it is necessary to first copy back the saveset of the last full backup, and then all intermediate savesets. Therefore, depending on the administratorīs strategy, the restore can contain several steps {(Details)}.

The Copy Backup is a full backup without influence on following Diff and Inc Backups. Windows archive bits are unchanged. Typically Copy Backups are used for extra backups like monthly or backups for external data archiving.

5.1.1. The Archive Bit

Windows operating systems use the archive attribute for file administration. It is a bit in the file properties which is set to 1 when a modifying access occurs to the file.

Effect of backup types on the A-Bit: For backup cycles after a full backup, only unmixed series of diff or inc ought to be performed, otherwise, unexpected effects may occur.

In the examples from left to right the time sequence of Backups and modifications of 3 files A,B,C is presented.
The column S shows (through +/-) if a file is backed up.
The column M shows the archive bit after changes on the file.


Example 1: full/diff backup cycle

File
Full
S
M
Diff
S
M
Diff
S
M
Diff
S
A
0
+
1
1
+
1
1
+
1
1
+
B
0
+
0
0
-
1
1
+
1
1
+
C
0
+
0
0
-
0
0
-
1
1
+


Example 2: Full/Inc-Backup cycle

File
Full
S
M
Incr
S
M
Incr
S
M
Incr
S
A
0
+
1
0
+
0
0
-
1
0
+
B
0
+
0
0
-
1
0
+
1
0
+
C
0
+
0
0
-
0
0
-
1
0
+


Example 3: Full/Diff/Inc-Backup cycle not recommended

File
Full
S
M
Diff
S
M
Incr
S
M
Incr
S
A
0
+
1
1
+
1
0
+
1
0
+
B
0
+
0
0
-
1
0
+
1
0
+
C
0
+
0
0
-
0
0
-
1
0
+

5.2. Parallel Backups

SEPsesam supports parallel i.e. simultaneous backup for several data sources onto one drive.
This is denoted as Sesam Multiplex Stream (SMS) .

Modern tape drives have increased their performance and capacity so that separate backups hardly use these performance advantages. The drive awaits data from the backup source for most of the time . This idle time can be used for receiving data from other backup sources.
SMS now offers up to 64 channels on a single drive; each channel can serve one backup.
Data of the different streams are distributed into packets, each packet is supplied with an identification mark and is copied onto the media. The data of a certain stream are not contiguously positioned on the media, but are interrupted by packets of other streams.
The identification marker of the packets enables SMS to restore the initial stream during reading.
Furthermore, SMS is able to split savesets across several media ( EOM = EndOfMedia ).

5.3. Administrative Data for the Savesets

Names of the savesets are uniquely determined by SEPsesam from the backup starting-time. For the restore each backup creates a listing-file containing the backed up directories, files and positioning data on media named task-date_execution_number_type.lis (full/diff/inc).
In the file task-date_execution_number_type.not , messages from execution and files not backed up due to operating system dependencies are stored.

In the SEPsesam database the following administrative data are filed for each backup executed : The success status of a backup can be viewed in column status in "'Backups by Status"'.

In SEPsesam's user interface these informations are presented with various filters for analysis (Backups by Status, Calendar Sheet, etc. ) .

6. Restore

Whenever files, directories or whole disks are destroyed during a desaster, they must be reproduced again.
\ SEPsesam offers full restore ( all files of a saveset ), selective restore ( selected files ) or generation-restore.
In the SEPsesam interface the restore wizzard - an assistant program - is launched. It leads through the entry masks.

6.1. Storage Time Limit, Media Cycle

Before implementing an automatic data backup, the user should consider the overall backup concept.
In particular, the storage time limit and the number of required media and media cycles are to be determined.
If the data are of a rather homogenous structure, relatively few different media pools will be needed.
For a heterogeneous structure a pool should be created for almost each category to enable flexible and adaptable strategies.
All media can of course be kept in one pool.

It is necessary to distinguish and decide between short term and long term storage of backed up data.
Short term storage is a media cycle, i.e. media are reused for backup mostly on a weekly to biweekly rotational basis. The effect is a deep and uninterrupted history of data enabling the restoration of rather small granular changes in the data.
Beside this cyclic usage of the storage media it is also necessary to store some backup snapshots such as end of month or end of year etc. in long term storage.

Therefore, the user must decide between the amount of backed up data and the history of the data.

Two different possibilities for backup strategies are:

6.2. Selective Restore

During selective restore only a subset of files of a saveset is selected. SEPsesam positions the media at the last mark before the selected data, skips unselected files and transfers only the desired files. This guarantees a quick and network-optimal restore.

6.3. Generation Restore

Selective restores from differential or incremental backups require a chain of several restores starting from the last full Backup.
SEPsesam switches automatically to the generation view and handles the arrangement of these single steps for the user.
In generation view, the selection list not only displays the files from the selected differential or incremental backup but all files since the last full backup - so all generations of files are presented.

6.3.1. Example: Generation Restore with Differential Backups

The backed up directory in the beginning contains the following files:
aa;1 bb;1 cc;1 dd;1 ee;1 ff;1 (version numbers clarify the changes )
additionally xx;1 since 2.day

These files are modified during the week and the directory is backed up every night by DiffBackups, i.e. all files modified since the last FullBackup are copied onto the media.
The series begins with a FullBackup.


modified
aa;2
cc;2
ee;2
aa;4
cc;3

files
bb;2
dd;2
aa;3
dd;3
bb:3



xx;1




Days
1
2
3
4
5
6
Backup
Full
Diff
Diff
Diff
Diff
Full
Saveset
SF1
SD2
SD3
SD4
SD5
SDF6
Listing
aa;1
aa;2
aa;2
aa;3
aa;4
aa;4
of
bb;1
bb;2
bb;2
bb;2
bb;2
bb;3
files
cc;1
cc;2
cc;2
cc;2
cc;3
cc;3
in
dd;1
dd;2
dd;2
dd;3
dd;3
dd;3
Saveset
ee;1

ee;2
ee;2
ee;2
ee;2

ff;1




ff;1



xx;1
xx;1
xx;1
xx;1


Generation list GEN_LIS ( file and saveset, in which it is saved ) :

Generation
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

aa;1 SF1
aa;2 SD2
aa;2 SD3
aa;3 SD4
aa;4 SD5
aa;4 SF6

bb;1 SF1
bb;2 SD2
bb;2 SD3
bb;2 SD4
bb;2 SD5
bb;3 SF6

cc;1 SF1
cc;1 SF1
cc;2 SD3
cc;2 SD4
cc;2 SD5
cc;3 SF6

dd;1 SF1
dd;1 SF1
dd;2 SD3
dd;2 SD4
dd;3 SD5
dd;3 SF6

ee;1 SF1
ee;1 SF1
ee;1 SF1
ee;2 SD4
ee;2 SD5
ee;2 SF6

ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF6



xx;1 SD3
xx;1 SD4
xx;1 SD5
xx;1 SF6


In normal "'Saveset view"' only files from the above saveset lists are offered for selection.
In "`generation view"', all files up to the last full backup are shown and can be selected.
If the saveset SD3 ( = 3.Generation ) is selected in the RestoreWizzard of SEPsesam, the following selection list appears ( except VMS without version numbers )

(x)
aa
( )
bb
( )
cc
( )
dd
(x)
ee
( )
ff
( )
xx


If the files aa and ee are selected for restore, only aa is copied from SD3, ee however is restored from SF1, because it was not modified yet. SEPsesam automatically executes these two restore steps including the necessary media changes.

6.3.2. Example: Generation Restore with Incremental Backups

All filesmodified since the last backup (no matter of what type) are copied onto the media.


modified
aa;2
cc;2
ee;2
aa;4
cc;3

files
bb;2
dd;2
aa;3
dd;3
bb:3



xx;1




Days
1
2
3
4
5
6
Backup
Full
Incr
Incr
Incr
Incr
Full
Saveset
SF1
SI2
SI3
SI4
SI5
SF6
List
aa;1
aa;2

aa;3
aa;4
aa;4
of
bb;1
bb;2



bb;3
files
cc;1

cc;2


cc;3
in
dd;1

dd;2

dd;3
dd;3
saveset
ee;1


ee;2

ee;2

ff;1




ff;1



xx;1


xx;1


Generation list GEN_LIS


Generation
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

aa;1 SF1
aa;2 SI2
aa;2 SI2
aa;3 SI4
aa;4 SI5
aa;4 SF6

bb;1 SF1
bb;2 SI2
bb;2 SI2
bb;2 SI2
bb;2 SI2
bb;3 SF6

cc;1 SF1
cc;1 SF1
cc;2 SI3
cc;2 SI3
cc;2 SI3
cc;3 SF6

dd;1 SF1
dd;1 SF1
dd;2 SI3
dd;2 SI3
dd;3 SI5
dd;3 SF6

ee;1 SF1
ee;1 SF1
ee;1 SF1
ee;2 SI4
ee;2 SI4
ee;2 SF6

ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF6



xx;1 SI3
xx;1 SI3
xx;1 SI3
xx;1 SF6


Selecting the files aa and ee from the 3.generation, aa is now restored from SI2 and ee from SF1.
If cc is selected in addition, then it is to be restored from the Saveset SI3, and three restore steps are necessary.
In the fifth generation all 5 savesets are involved due to the incremental properties, i.e. if the user selects all of them, five restore steps will have to be performed.

6.3.3. Example: Mixed Types


modified
aa;2
cc;2
ee;2
aa;4
cc;3

files
bb;2
dd;2
aa;3
dd;3
bb:3



xx;1




Days
1
2
3
4
5
6
Backup
Full
Incr
Incr
Diff
Incr
Full
Saves.
SF1
SI2
SI3
SD4
SI5
SF6
Lists
aa;1
aa;2

aa;3
aa;4
aa;4
of
bb;1
bb;2

bb;2

bb;3
files
cc;1

cc;2
cc;2

cc;3
in
dd;1

dd;2
dd;2
dd;3
dd;3
Saveset
ee;1


ee;2

ee;2

ff;1




ff;1



xx;1
xx;1

xx;1


Generation list GEN_LIS


Generation
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

aa;1 SF1
aa;2 SI2
aa;2 SI2
aa;3 SD4
aa;4 SI5
aa;4 SF6

bb;1 SF1
bb;2 SI2
bb;2 SI2
bb;2 SD4
bb;2 SD4
bb;3 SF6

cc;1 SF1
cc;1 SF1
cc;2 SI3
cc;2 SD4
cc;2 SD4
cc;3 SF6

dd;1 SF1
dd;1 SF1
dd;2 SI3
dd;2 SD4
dd;3 SI5
dd;3 SF6

ee;1 SF1
ee;1 SF1
ee;1 SF1
ee;2 SD4
ee;2 SD4
ee;2 SF6

ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF1
ff;1 SF6



xx;1 SI3
xx;1 SD4
xx;1 SD4
xx;1 SF6


In SEPsesam's GUI a specific view can be chosen- the one of single backups or the generations view. Using the single backups view the user only works on this selected one, whether it is an incremental or differential one or not (like during a normal restore).

6.4. Restore of the Registry

Starting the restore (complete saveset of the registry-backup of the client to be recovered): The new restore-target registry_replace and a specific mode overwrite have to be entered.

7. Basic Configuration

This is a step-by-step description how to configure the SEPsesam components described above {(Details)}, in order to do a simple data backup. The detailed description of the interface elements can be found below {(Details)} .

7.1. Step 1: Clients

First of all, the administrator has to decide which computers need a backup by SEPsesam. Information on names, addresses and accesses to these systems is requested.
In GUI:Components-Topology-New Location,freely selected location names and their descriptions are inserted since each server or client must be related to a specific location. Location LOCAL is entered as default.
Within this location, a new client is configured in GUI:Components-Topology-new Client. According to the operating system of that computer, either WNT - OS/2 or UNIX platform is selected. As the name for the client the name of that computer defined in the network is inserted. If there is a name server in the network, SEPsesam automatically selects the TCP/IP address. Otherwise, the address recorded in the local file /etc/hosts has to be entered.
For Operating system the operating system installed on that computer is inserted.
If the client has several network cards, their TCP/IP names can be entered in Interfaces.

During configuration an attempt is executed to to contact the remote computer ( installation of SEPsesam software on that computer is a prerequisite ).


7.1.1. Setup of the SSH-Client

In order to create an SSH-Client, a client must be configured. Then the settings for SSH can be changed.


After the confirmation, the pop-up-question if the client is to be newly installed must be answered with NO.
Now, the SSH-Client is configured and ready to start.

7.2. Step 2: Storage Hardware - Drives and Loaders

During installation SEPsesam checks the SCSI-connected storage devices and enters their data into its database as far as possible.
At certain types of loaders the connection between loader and drives cannot be recognized automatically. Therefore, these devices must be manually verified and entered into the configuration.
For this purpose GUI:Components-Loader is selected where the previously set-up loaders can be found. Each loader is marked and its properties are entered. With OK, the deviced is finally entered into the configuration.


For drives, an analogue procedure is applied. Properties of each drive are selected via GUI:Components-Drives-Drive Groups . By default, the drive group local_Hardware has already been selected.


If "`No Load"' is entered in the loader field even though this drive is served by a loader, the case described above is given. In the options of that field, the appropriate loader is selected. With OK, this device is included into the configuration.

7.3. Step 3: Media - Data Carriers

To make media (tape cartridges etc.) usable for SEPsesam, they must be identifiable. Each media receives a unique identification, the label, which is placed at the beginning of media during physical initialisation.

SEPsesam creates labels of the format {Poolname}nnnnn.

SEPsesam requests that media are organized in pools. Within the pool the media are simply enumerated - SEPsesam performs this task for the administrator. After installation a media pool with the name of SEPsesam server is generated.

In GUI:Components-Media Pools-New Media Pool, a test pool can be created .
Media-strategy GET_OLDEST {(Details)} and change-strategy "'Time"' are the default values.
For drive group, the drive to insert the media in is to be selected.


The media must now be introduced into the media archive which is done through GUI:Components-Media-New Media .


A New Media window appears. After the selection of a specific drive the corresponding drive properties appear in the following fields. In Media type and Media Pool,the appropriate one from the drop-down menu is selected. Automatic Getting of Next Free Number at bottom of the window is clicked and started.

SEPsesam now creates the next number in series, physically initializes the media and enters the new media into the database.

When entering a lot of media at a time a loader can execute the manual operations automatically.The magazine must be filled with raw media and the archive adjustment is to be started via the menu {(Details)}.
In GUI:Components-Media Pools- resp. Media the created pools and media can be identified.

7.4. Step 4: Backup Tasks

In GUI:Tasks-by Clients,the button new Task opens an input-window where the description of each backup is to be entered.
The task name is arbitrary (max. 15 letters). In the input-fields, disks, directories and files from which clients {(Details)} will be backed up
need to be specified. Exclude list expects names or name-patterns of files which must not be backed up.


Single tasks can be collected under a specific group name in task groups .

7.5. Step 5: Schedules

The SEPsesam time control is based on SEPuler {(Details)}, an appointment calendar program. An appointment is an event which is to happen at a certain time. It consists of a start time, a description of the event as well as its recurrence.

In GUI:Scheduling-Schedules there is already a schedule after the installation, the day change {(Details)}.
In GUI:Scheduling-Events the administrator will be able to recognize that day change will be done on the following day at 8:30 ( NEWDAY-appointment ).
With this, the daily regularity of SEPsesam is set up.

Now a media must be initialized, i.e. it is purged from old data and prepared for backups. This is done via GUI:Activities-Immediate Start-Media Action.

With the next working cycle of the SEPuler the initialization of the new media begins; in the bottom display window messages about the request for a media ( via loader or manually ) appear up to its final availability.

To configure a cyclic media appointment, a new daily schedule at about 5 minutes after the NEWDAY-appointment is created ( GUI:Scheduling-Schedules-New Schedule ).
In GUI:Scheduling-Schedules-New Media Event a new media appointment using this schedule is set up.
The success of this activity can be checked in the calendar sheet or under backups > by Status.

7.6. Step 6: Backup Start

For one-time backup, GUI:Activities-Immediate Start-Backup is seleted, afterwards a task and a media pool are marked (default settings apply) and the task is started.

To configure a periodic backup first a schedule must be created implementing the desired recurrence of the backup. Afterwards, a new backup appointment using this schedule is to be created.
Thus the backup is inserted into the appointment calendar and will be started by the SEPuler at the specified time.

When the backup is finished its proper execution can be checked in GUI:Scheduling-Calender Sheet or GUI:Backups-Status.
This saveset also appears within the restore wizard.

7.7. Directory Structure of SEPSesam

ID denotes the installation directory in which SEPsesam was installed.
The paths are shown in slash notation and are identical for different operating systems.

During installation of the software kit the following directory structure is created:


Template files incl. raw database for first install
ID/skel
Templates for user programable interfaces
ID/skel/templates
Sesam Server-components
ID/bin/sesam
sms- und stpd-components
ID/bin/sms
Sesam Server Gui-components
ID/bin/gui
Sesam Server database components
ID/bin/db


During setup the following directory structure is created:

Initial values files
ID/var/ini
Database
ID/var/db
Loging main directory
IDvar/log
Short living files
ID/var/tmp
Temporarily files
ID/var/work
File pointing to root ini files
/etc/sesam2000.ini

In {ID}/var/ini the following initialization files are created:

sm.ini
sm_java.policy
sms.ini
odbc.ini
debug.ini
sm_lic.ini
stpd.ini

8. The SEPsesam GraficalUserInterface (GUI)

Starting SEPsesam, the connection to SEPsesam database is created at first. After this, the main screen opens from where all SEPsesam procedures can be started.


The main screen consists of title-, menu- and tool-bars (top) as well as component window (left), display window (right) and activities display window (below).
In the menu bar File, Activities, Configuration and Help menu titles are displayed. These denote certain groups of similar actions. By clicking with the mouse pointer or activating Alt + the key of the underlined letter, a drop-down menu is opened with several subitems (functions, actions, commands).
These subitems can also be activated by a mouseclick or via Alt + key of underlined letter and input masks for further or more precise definition of an action are opening up.

In the toolbar, buttons (shortcuts) for a quickstart of the most important functions such as backup, restore, display backups by state, calendar sheet, and ? = about SEPsesam are present.

The display of the current server is only visible in the GUI of a MasterSesam.

In the Component window on the left, components of the SEPsesamsystem are shown.
With additional mouseclicks submenus can be opened and more and more detailed information is displayed or activities are started.

In the bottom activities display window, messages and protocols for the observed drives are shown.
Last View indicates the latest update of the information. If the check box cyclic is marked, the update process of messages will be cyclic in pre-set intervals.

Example how to select drives:
*
all drives
1
Drive 1
1,2
Drive 1 and Drive 2
2-5
Drive 2 to Drive 5
In the performance chart the transferred data quantities in the single SMS-channels are presented during the executing backups/restores respectively.


Useful Tips:
By simply dragging the mouse from the corners or the sides all windows can be trimmed to the desired size.
Invalid entries are generally prevented by the interface, i.e. only acceptable charcters can be entered (e.g. the task name must not contain blanks, \, /, ? or *). The input length is also supervised.

The optical appearance of the output table can be interactively adapted to the individual requirements with regards to column arrangement, column width or sequence of sorting.


Column arrangement
By clicking and holding the column head of the desired column, it can be moved within the table
Column width
If the mouse pointer is pulled across the right side of the column head, the mouse pointer changes into -
gt;. If within this space the left button of the mouse is pressed and held, the column width can be changed as desired
order of sorting
By clicking the mouse once in the column head the table is sorted in accordance with this column by the first click upwards. The second click changes it to downwards

8.1. File

Exit closes all open windows and returns to the system level. Running processes such as backup or restore are not affected by this.

8.2. Activities

8.2.1. Restore, Restore wizard

With this function, backed up files can be copied back from backup media (tape, disk etc.) onto the desired computer (client) {(Details)}.


In Intro the administrator can find a short description of the restore procedure.


Searching by task name
To search for a certain task intended for restore, the selection fields task and saved in time interval representing * all tasks are selected.
After activating the button Next the savesets created within the given period are shown in table format.


Searching by File or Path Name

This function supports the search for files or directories. By this means backups containing these files or file patterns are found. There is an input-field Search Pattern for Filename or Path as well as selection-fields Task and Saved in time interval ( for time limitation of output).
With * , all tasks are selected. After activating button Next, the savesets created within the given period and matching the file patterns are shown in table format.



Task
Task name (User specified identifier)
Start
Start time of the backup
Run
Current number of the backup within backup day ( )
Type
Backup type (C=copy, D=differential, F=full, I=incremental)
Media Quantity
Counter of media, written during the backup
Size
Saveset size
Client
Backed up client
Backup Day
Date of the backup day


If completely restore selected task is selected, then the final mask of the wizard appears ( Start the Restore ).
Otherwise, the file selection mask of the selective restore appears.

If a backup of type diff or incr is selected, then the input field for generation restore {(Details)} is also activated, i.e. SEPsesam calculates all necessary restoring steps from the last full backup up to the selected one and executes these automatically including the required media changes.
If this switch is de-activated, then only the selected saveset is used.

After selection of a certain task and marking the button Next], the following screen appears.


In the screenīs header the task selected before reappears. All directories and files of the saveset are displayed in a tree structure.
Double-clicking the symbol [+] left to a directory changes it to [-] and the directories and files within it become visible. Another click on the [-] closes the directory again.
Clicking the checkbox left to a file or directory marks these directories/files for restore ( checkmark ).
The absolute path of the marked directory or file is visible in the top field Position.

Hint
Marking of a directory refers to all sub-directories and files contained in it.


The Search button opens a mask in which directory, file names, or parts thereof, can be entered as criteria. The directories/files found appear directly below in the form of a list. The directories and/or files can be marked (clicking the checkbox) and after pressing the OK button they are inserted in the upper window. With the button Reset this mark can be reset. After activating the button Next the screen Start appears to start a restore.


In the header of the mask the selected saveset is shown again. In case of a selective restore the checkbox Restore according composed list is marked. If no file was selected in the previous mask (i.e. if the whole saveset must be restored) the optional checkbox Restore of the Complete Saveset is marked.

In the middle part the drive (where the media containing the saveset are to be loaded) the network interface to use and the target client for restore is inserted. The field Used Media shows the required media.
In New restore target, another restore target than the original can be defined. In this case it is necessary to fully define the target path, under which non-existing directories should be created.

There are additional options to select whether the restore can overwrite equally named files or not.

By activating the button Start and a confirmation in dialog box, the whole restore process is started.
With the button Back it is possible to go back to previous masks.
With Cancel the restore wizard exits without any action.

The triggered restore is stored in SEPsesam's database as a restore task under the current time stamp ( GUI:Components-Tasks ) and can be repeated in GUI:Activities-Immediate Start-Restore {(Details)}.
Button Expert
By activating the button "'Expert..."' a new window opens with the tabs "`Options"', "`Reduction"' and "`Filter"'.

Tab Optionen


In the window "`Expert Options"' there is a way to asign additional arguments for the restore. This is helpful for special sbc commands. In this tab there is a way to set the verbose levels of the trace output. The verbose level ranges from 0 - 6 or "`no"' can be set. As higher the number as higher the trace information will be logged by the restore. For more options you can contact our support or read the additional documentation for special sbc clients (e.g. sbc für MS Exchange).

Tab Reduction


Without the option reduction the restore will be saved with the original tree structure.
With reduction the data content in "`Files in this path"' will be restored in the directly beneath showing path.
Example (with the above Screenshot)
Under D:/Programms/SEPsesam/var/ saved files should receive a new restore target in the folder D:/sesam/var/. The sub directories also will be created in D:/sesam/var/.


In the tab "'Filter"' it's possible to insert regular expressions {(Details)} to exclude directories or files from the restore.

Confirming the button Ok all settings will be saved and the window closes.
Confirming the button Apply all settings will be saved.
Confirming the button Cancel the "'Expert"' window will be closed.

8.2.2. Immediate Start Backup

Immediately starts a backup process by inserting it into appointment calendar at current time.



Task
Selection of a configured task
Task group
Selection of a configured task group
Backup Type
Selection of backup type (Full, Diff, Incr, Copy)
Media Pool
Selection of a media pool the backup data should be copied to
Drive Group
the backup is executed on a drive, automatically selected by SEPsesam from the drive group, specified in the media pool (not editable)
Drive (opt.)
Selection of a specific drive from the selected drive group
Interface (opt.)
additional TCP/IP-Name of the source-client
Start time
Entry in the appointment calendar - can be modified ( Delay, etc. )
Function of buttons

OK
insert into the appointment calendar
Cancel
No action and return to the start screen

8.2.3. Immediate Start Restore

Immediately restarts a restore task already configured through the restore wizard.



Restore task
Selection of a defined Restore task
of backup
Name of the backup task
Restore type
full or selective
Tree type
keep the directory structure or "'flat"' ( =copy everything in 1 directory)
Mode
Overwrite existing files or not
Source drive
Select a drive, from which the Restore should be performed
Interface
further TCPIP-Name of the source-client .
Target Node
Client on which the data from the storage media should be copied
Start time
Entry in the appointment calendar - can be modified ( Delay, etc. )
Function of buttons

OK
Insert into the appointment calendar
Cancel
No action and return to the calling screen

8.2.4. Immediate Start Media Action

Immediately starts a media appointment by inserting it into appointment calendar at current time.



Media Pool
Selects a media pool
Media Strategy
GET_OLDEST-Strategy (not editable)
Drive Group
According to selected media pool
Drive
Selects a certain drive from the specified drive group
Priority
Executed without priority, i.e. always
Start Time
Entry in the appointment calendar- can be modified ( Delay, etc. )
Function of buttons

OK
Insert into the appointment calendar
Cancel
No action and return to the start screen

8.2.5. Immediate Start Command

Immediately starts a command appointment by inserting it into appointment calendar at current time.

Additional hints for the executability of command appointments can be found in \ref{Allow_CommandEvent} Access Restrictions of Command Appointments.



Name
Execution without name
in Schedule
Execution without schedule ( once )
Command
Command specification
Priority
Execution without priority, i.e. always
User
appropriate user identified in access restriction table at the client
Client
Computer on which the command should be executed
Start Time
Entry in the appointment calendar- can be modified ( Delay, etc. )
OK
insert into the appointment calendar
Command Selection
opens a window to select from already created commands
Cancel
No action and return to the start screen

8.2.6. Restart of Backups

All failed backups of a SEPsesam backup day {(Details)} can be restarted within this window.
Clicking on the button Start tasks, the ones not restart can be deselected (the check disappears).



Sesam day
select a SEPsesam backup day
Client
Select a client from which information is to be shown
Restart
Activates restart of backup
Server
on MasterSesam only

shows information from other SEPsesam Servers as well
Status
reason of error
Task
Name of backup task
Start time
of failed backup
Type
backup type (F=Full, D=Differential, I=Incremental, C=Copy)
Count
Number of executions of this task during backup day
Start
Starts selected backup tasks at the specified time
Cancel
No action and return to the start screen

8.3. Configuration

The Configuration screen is presented as follows:


8.3.1. Setting Defaults



Default values for status filters, the current messages window and online help can be set here.

In Statusfilter categories are defined, which are shown in Backups by Status {(Details)} and Restores by Status {(Details)} .


In Current Messages, defaults for the bottom informations window are set.


In Online Help,the browser and reader installed on the administratorīs computer are assigned. These will work with the HTM- and PDF-files containing SEPsesam's online help.
After entry of the appropriate data the button Search changes to test , immediately allowing a check of online help.

8.3.2. Media Types

Listing of all media-types defined in SEPsesam. Entries in black font are the media types currently used. They were set up in the database at the installation of SEPsesam and -contrary to the user defined media types (green font)- can be neither erased nor changed.



Media-type
SEPsesam internal identification of the media type
Drive-type
SEPsesam internal drive types
Capacity
Storage capacity of an allowed combination media / drive
New
Setup of a new media type
Change
Saves changes (then Close to return to the calling screen)
Delete
Remove a media type from the database
Close
No action and return to the start screen
Allowed media-types:

Media-type
Description
DISK_
Media on directory oriented storage devices ( disks, diskettes, also virtual etc. )
DAT
4mm technology ( Digital Audio Tapes )
TK
1/2 inch technology ( DLT )
THXKD
1/2 inch technology ( super DLT )
EX
Exabyte 8mm technology ( Video )
ULTRIUM
DLT-technology
SLR
QIC-technology
Allowed drive-types:

Drive-type
Description
DISK_CHNG
DISK virtual drive on changable media
DISK_HARD
DISK virtual media on disk
AIT
AIT IBM-Drives
DLT
DLT
SDLT
DLT SuperDLT
DAT
DAT DigitalAudioTape
DDS
DAT DigitalAudioTape
EXA
EXA Exabyte
QIC
QIC Tandberg
SLR
QIC
LTO
LTO


New type designations for media and drives can be created or new combinations can be derived from existing ones.

8.3.3. Remote Server

This item is used for the server administration of MasterSesam {(Details)} .
It is possible to both configure or remove SEPsesam servers as well as to post new servers to the system.

Hint
Available in the MasterSesam version only.


Server Name
Name of additional SEPsesam-Server in the network
Connection
Server is on the network (green = ON)

Server is not on the network (red = Broken)

No connection requested (gray = OFF )
DB-Version
Database-Version
Type
Connection type between GUI and Kernel
Operating System
of the SEPsesam Server
New
Enter a new SEPsesam-Server in the list
Properties
Modify the Server-Parameters
Delete
Remove a Server from the list (after confirmation)
Close
Closes the screen without action

With a MasterSesam other SEPsesam Systems are administered.

8.3.4. Interfaces

User interfaces are small procedures of the operating system interpreter which can be programmed by the user.
SEPsesam starts these procedures with certain parameters on certain events but is not concerned with what these procedures do.
Only the PRE/POST-interface can have an effect on the execution of backups. These programs should not run for too long since they can delay the backup.

Templates for these procedures are delivered during the installation in the SEPsesam directory {ID}/var/skel/templates.
To activate such an interface its corresponding template file must be copied to the directory {ID}/bin/sesam. - it is only active there (at the client).
Having selected a client the user can modify the templates to his needs within a text editor window.

SEPsesam offers the so-called Pre-, Post-, Alarm-,Notify-, and Disaster-Interface.


8.3.4.1. PRE-Interface
Before a backup starts its data transfer some special actions may have to be executed (e.g. messages, end/start programs, executing certain preparatory actions in the databases). These actions can be programmed within the PRE-interface.
The PRE-interface consists of a procedure sbc_pre which is copied to the clients during configuration. The procedure {ID}/bin/sesam/sbc_pre is started shortly before backup.

It is called with 10 arguments from the current SEPsesam backup task


Arg.Nr
Meaning
1
Backup source
2
Name of backing up computer (tape server interface)
3
SESAM task-name
4
Number of drive
5
Backup-type: C_opy, F_ull, D_ifferential, I_ncremental
6
Execution counter of task during backup day (= number of LIS-file)
7
Saveset-name
8
Label of used media
9
Pool of used media
10
Schedule which started this backup


Return values:
Before the procedure finishes it must either write to STDOUT
STATUS:OK or
STATUS:ERROR {text} .

SEPsesam checks this output of PRE-procedure and according to the setting 'Start backup in spite of pre error' (a property of backup-task) the data transfer is started or not.
8.3.4.2. POST-Interface
Having finished the backup data transfer some special actions might also be needed (e.g. messages, program end/start, restart databases etc.). These actions can be programmed with the help of post-interface. The post-interface consists of the procedure sbc_post which is copied to the clients during configuration. The procedure {ID}/bin/sesam/sbc_post is started immediately after backup.
SEPsesam proceeds according to the setting 'Start post despite backup error' in the backup task, i.e. if this box is not checked and errors exist, then the POST-procedure will not be executed.

The procedure is called with 12 arguments from the current SEPsesam backup task:
Arg.Nr
Meaning
1
Backup source
2
Name of backing up computer (tape server interface)
3
SESAM task-name
4
Number of drive
5
Backup-type: C_opy, F_ull, D_ifferential, I_ncremental
6
Backup status (1 = ok, 0 = error)
7
Backup message text
8
Execution counter of task during backup day (= number of LIS-file)
9
Saveset-name
10
Label of used media
11
Pool of used media
12
Schedule which started this backup


Return values:
Before the procedure finishes it must either write to STDOUT
STATUS:OK or
STATUS:ERROR {text} .

If the POST-procedure ends with an error, the backup will be rated with status warning.
8.3.4.3. Alarm- and Notify- Interface
The SEPsesam system needs no administration after complete set-up of all clients and backup tasks during normal operation (except for the restore). If any functional errors occur, e.g. failure of a certain backup, this event is automatically passed on to the alarm-interface. This interface is programmable to filter desired messages and their conveyance to the authorised personnel. The alarm-interface consists of the procedure {ID}/bin/sesam/sm_alarm.

For successful backups and restores,the procedure {ID}/bin/sesam/sm_notify is used which can be programmed if necessary.

It is initiated with 2 parameters


Arg1
Name of the SEPsesam backup task resp. calling module
Arg2
Text of the message

Hint
Do not use commands which require input from the user (OK-buttons etc.). Such commands may cause interruption of backups during the night.
8.3.4.4. Disaster-Interface
A disaster is defined as the destruction of the SEPsesam backup-server and its data.
To prepare for this case, SEPsesam provides a so-called disaster-interface.

The concept is as follows: After the installation of SEPsesam the file
{ID}/var/skel/templates/sm_disaster ( sm_disaster.cmd in Windows )
can be copied by the user to {ID}/bin/sesam/sm_disaster ( sm_disaster.cmd )
and modified in any way.

This procedure is executed in case of success by all backups containing "'DISASTER"' or "'SESAM"' delivering 2 arguments: The disaster strategy is as follows: In case of emergency the following steps must be executed after the computer restore: Example: The metadata of the disaster interface look like:
SESAM_00003 d:/su/var NULL
sbc -r -l full -o over -S softnt6:11001 -d SMS:Tape0 -t SESAM_00003:3 -s SC20020710200512 -n 5 -R /

SESAM_00003 is the media
SC20020710200512 is the saveset on the media
sbc -r ... is the restore command
8.3.4.5. Disaster-Recovery for Windows
Requirements: Windows 2000 Server / Windows 2000 Server with Active Directory
Backup
  1. Create an All backup-task ( e.g. DISASTER_ALL with source "'all"' )
  2. Create a Registry backup-task ( e.g. DISASTER_REG with source "'registry"' )
  3. Create a System State backup-task ( e.g. DISASTER_SYS with source "'system_state"' )
Restore
  1. Boot in directory services restore mode
  2. Restore of the All backup
  3. Restore of the Registry backup
  4. Reboot in directory services restore mode
  5. Restore of the System State backup
  6. Reboot

Windows 2000 Professional
Backup
  1. Create an All backup-task ( e.g. DISASTER_ALL with source "'all"' )
  2. Create a System State backup-task ( e.g. DISASTER_SYS with source "'system_state"' )
Restore
  1. Restore of the All backup
  2. Restore of the System State backup
  3. Reboot

8.3.5. Memory monitor



8.3.6. Support - Protocols



Here the scope of the protocolling can be set in the lower window.
Under normal conditions 'user level' is set. For support reasons, 'db levelcan temporarily be set' creating a more detailed output.
'develop level' is set by SEP AG support.

8.3.7. Support - Email Settings

After an unlock process triggered by the responsible support authority settings for sending emails can be configured.



Service Access
Responsible for service ( Distributors )

pre-set at installation - not editable
Customer
Name of the customer

pre-set at installation - not editable
SMTP Email Address
Mail Sender (Customer)
SMTP Server
Address of the Outgoing Mail Server at the customer

( also TCP/IP-Address possible )
Account name
Account name of the Outgoing Mail Server of the customer
(optional)
e.g. m8361599-0

only necessary on smtp-Servers, which perform authentification

if needed interactively queried
Password
Password of the Incoming Mail Server at the customer
(optional)
masked input

only necessary on smtp-Servers performing authentification

if needed interactively queried
Recipient
Address of the responsible support

pre-set at installation - not editable
CC
Address for copy of the email
BCC
Address for copy of the email - not shown to recipient


If no account name is specified it is assumed that no authorization is necessary at the SMTP-Server. The storage of the password is also optional. If it should not be saved, then it is queried when necessary in a dialogue box and is used for the current session only without saving.

8.4. Help

In online user guide this document appears in the GUI.
Under Online Support the customer can register himself, may send listings and protocols or comments by e-mail ( feedback ) to the support .




In License info the local computer name and TCP/IP-Address are shown as they are found by the licensing module .

8.5. Components



8.5.1. Topology

Topology is the hardware environment of SEPsesam.

These are the interconnected computers (clients), which can be grouped into locations and sub-locations as well as the storage devices ( loaders, drives ), which are available for SEPsesam locally and/or at the clients.

The menu item Topology shows all SEPsesam locations, clients, loaders and drives known as well as the media contained within. By clicking the symbols one can expand into the subordinate structures via a function tree. Each client is related to a location and each loader and drive to a client.
By marking (clicking the mouse on one of the tree components and clicking the switch properties), the user opens the entry masks for the components.

A MasterSesam at the highest level presents all currently accessible 'normal' SEPsesam computers. With a mouseclick their individual data can be viewed.
A 'normal' SEPsesam-server shows one node only, namely itself.


To create a new location independent of a location placed above it, start at Topology and click button New Client.
A client is always is related to and created within a location.
8.5.1.1. Server Properties



Server Name
Name of the servers in the network
Connection
On (green) / Off (grey) / Broken (red)
Operating System
of the Server
DB-Port
Port of the socket connection to the remote DB
DB-Name
Name of database on the server
RMI-Port
Port of the socket connection to the remote GUI
Comment
User comment

Hint
The parameters of the server cannot be edited here.
8.5.1.2. Location Properties
Location is defined as a group of clients and/or further sub-locations. This should help to organize larger networks so that computers in a building, an external office etc. can be managed and presented in separate units.
New locations can be configured from a SEPsesam Server or from an existing location (sub-location) SEPsesam sets up a tree-structure for all locations(e.g. Germany-Bavaria-Weyarn-SEP) offering greater clarity.



Name
denotes the name of the location
in
superordinated location (uneditable)
Description
more exact description of the location
Contakt
contact person at this location
Notes
additional information
8.5.1.3. Client Properties
Clients are defined as computers in the network from which data are to be saved. The computer on which SEPsesam is installed is called the server.

If a client is not available for backups (e.g. because of a shutdown), the user can select the checkbox locked for backups and prevent unnecessary access (locked clients are marked with "`off"' under topology).

Warning: From that moment on the client is no longer backed up, even if this is marked in the appointment calendar.



Location
selection of pre-defined locations. A Client must be assigned to a Location
Operating System
selection of an Operating system (WNT, Linux or Unix) for the Client
Access Mode
selection of access method. Default is CTRL. SSH and RSH can be selected, too
Notes
additional information
Interfaces
additional TCP/IP-Names of the client

in case there are more network cards installed, these are accessed by their respective names

This should allow a fast, smooth data transfer without blocking other network activities over separate fast networks.
Hint
If several interfaces are entered, separate them with Return or Blank.
8.5.1.4. Treating of Firewalls


Normally SEPsesam uses ports delivered by operating system at random which is not allowed if the client is positioned behind a firewall.
For this a port range can be determined which is to be used by sm_ctrlc for communication with the clients ( Accessoptions input -o port=firstport-lastport ).
Another way is to configure a Singleport connection ( -s ), where SEPesam uses only one single port ( by default 11301). This must not be done for Remote Tape Servers.
The backward ports from client to SEPsesam server are placed in STPD Options, e.g. 11002-11005. The data are transfered over these ports where each parallel backup needs two separate ports.

8.5.2. Loader

Loaders are devices composed of drive(s), a magazine with slots for media and a robot that can move media between the slots, drives and a potentially available input-output port.
In most cases, this input-output port is a conveyer belt moving the cassettes into/out from the loader.

Loading of media is defined as the movement of a cassette from the magazine into a drive, unloading is the opposite.

Loaders enable a fully automated backup system during night or weekends.

The menu item Loaders shows the configured loaders and the drives within them and offers the respective tools .


8.5.2.1. Button Properties Loader and New Loader



Device
SCSI device identification of loader

( ./bin/sesam/sm_slu scan shows the identifications to use )
Tape Server
Client, at which the loader is SCSUI-connected
Type
Producer identification
Ctrl
Loader-control with SesamLoaderUtility SLU
Slots
number of slots of the magazine
Barcode
select yes/no depending on whether the loader has a barcode reader
Autom.Unload
The drives of the loader unload automatically, when robot moves the media.

If not, then the drive must be opened with a special command (depends on the loader type) before the robot's movement


The loader 0 has a special designation, it is the so-called virtual loader, i.e. it does not exist physically but is used exclusively for the "'movement"' of virtual DISK-media.
Since DISK_HARD-media are virtual ( directories on disks ), they do need a virtual loader.
8.5.2.2. Button Contents


Function of buttons:

Archive adjustment
{(Details)}
Cancel
closes the contents screen without any action
Legend
lists the meaning of the colored marks

This represents a symbolic view of the loader which refreshes periodically to show the current state.
On the left side the magazine with the slots is represented, to the right the robot, at the top one or more drives, below the input/output port.

Since often only part of the media is changed resp. with big media libraries only part of the media is preserved for SEPsesam, the SEPsesam user can limit the archive adjustment to certain loader slot areas.
If the media have barcode labels, this is also recognized. Verification of tape labels through direct reading of the label from the media (tape, disk...) is supported.

The archive adjustment can also be done for inventory purposes whereby the user reviews the available media of the loader.
8.5.2.3. Button Loader Action


Action section


Import
transport of tape cartridge through the input/output port into the magazine
Export
transport of tape cartridge from the magazine through the input/output port to outside of loader
Load from slot
move tape cartridge from the specified magazine slot into the specified drive
Load via label
move tape cartridge with certain ID (e.g. S00001) into the specified drive
Unload
move tape cartridge from the specified drive back into its slot

Loader Number
selection of a defined loader
Drive Number
selection of a defined drive (within that loader)
Slot
defines the number of the slot receiving the tape cartridge, or from which it must be loaded
Label
In case of "'Load via Label"' instead of slot number
Start
of the corresponding action
Cancel
closes the entry mask without an action

8.5.3. Drives

Drives are devices saving data onto a media inside them. They can be connected either to a SEPsesam computer (local drive) or to other computers that can be reached through the network (remote drive). These are normally tape devices into which tape cartridges can be inserted. It is also possible to back up data on disks or other directory oriented devices.

According to the grouping principle of SEPsesam the organization in drive groups is required here as well. Even standalone drives must belong to a group.

Big loaders can have several internal drives which are loaded from one magazine. It is recommended that these drives are organised into one group. A backup is delegated only to this group. SEPsesam searches for the particular drive to be used for the backup.


8.5.3.1. Button Properties
Here the parameters of the selected element are shown and changed if necessary (Group or Drive).
8.5.3.2. Button New Drive Group
Here a new drive group is configured.



Name
An arbitrary name of the drive group
Description
additional information for the user
8.5.3.3. Button New Drive
Here the new drives are configured.
Each drive must belong to a drive group; this should have been created before.

The SEPsesam-internal number of the drive drive-number is pre-set.

Field Loader specifies whether the drive is served by a loader or not. The loaders configured and accepted in SEPsesam appear in a dropdown menu. "'no Loader"' configures a manually operated standalone drive.

In the dropdown Drive type the type of the drive is set ( DISK-Types see below ).

In the field Tape Server the client to which the drive is connected is entered.
The dropdown shows all clients configured in SEPsesam. The selection of the local computer creates a local, otherwise a remote drive.

In Device the operating system specific SCSI-identification of the storage device is inserted.
With the command {ID}/bin/sesam/sm_slu scan a list of the connected SCSI-devices can be created.
On Windows-Systems the identification to be entered is displayed in brackets at the end of the row - Tape{Number} ( from the registry ).
On UNIX- and LINUX-Systems the device representation is /dev/n{AlfaNum} ( test with the mt-command suggested ).

DISK-Types are automatically entered with disk{Drive Nr} ( see below ).



Drive Number
number automatically assigned by SEPsesam for a new drive

can be changed
Loader
selection of loader which serves this drive (it is possible without loader)
Drive Type
selection of type (e.g. DISK, DISK_HARD or Types of tape devices )
Tape Server
configured SEPsesam client the drive is connected to
Drive Group
selection of drive group (since every drive must be assigned to a drive group)
Device
SCSI-Identification, under which the device is configured at system level
SMS-Channels
max. number of parallel backups on Sesam Multiplex Stream Tape

(0 = no SMS-Drive)
Options
for type DISK_CHNG, the device directory and the block size must be entered
Saveset
statistics about backups and restores on that drive

A special case are the virtual drives already mentioned above {(Details)} , where no physical drives and moveable media (tapes) exist.

Type DISK_HARD
Configuration by selection of drive type DISK_HARD and loader 0 . The device is not editable, it is automatically "'disk"' + drive-number.


The assignment of directories to virtual media is performed through the media-pool which also specifies the maximum capacity (in KB) for this pool. This later prevents the unsupervised writing to the disk.


Type DISK_CHNG
Configuration by selection of drive type DISK_CHNG and no loader or physical loader if available.
The device is not editable, it is automatically named "'disk"' + drive number.
In Options the path for the virtual media is defined.


8.5.3.4. Button Drive Action
Pressing this button from drive-group level you'll get following screen.


To abort all activities on all drives ofthe group is the only item.


Pressing this button from drive level you'll get following screen.


From the GUI, the following 7 actions with the selected drive may be started. The execution and progress of the actions is shown in the lower, cyclically updated information window.

Get label
shows the label of media, currently in the drive
Mount media
the MOUNT-State is a special reservation of the media, which should prevent unnecessary rewindings.
Dismount media
cancels the MOUNT-State.
Unload media
cancels the MOUNT-State and ejects the cassette
Release drive
cancels all running activities on the drive
Reconfigure drive
after change in the drive parameters
Release group
cancels all running activities on all drives of the group


CAUTION
After manual changes in the drive ( tapes removal or insertion), the drive must be dismounted.

"'Unload media"' should not be confused with the unloading process of the loader. Here it means that the drive releases the media from the fitting and ejects it.
The loader then can pick it up and transport it back to the magazine ( = unload by the loader ).

8.5.4. Media Pools

In SEPsesam media are grouped into media-pools.
The identification of a particular media is always "`pool-name + 5-digit number"', this is the reason why a pool-name never is allowed to end with 5 digits.

Media pools provide the main base for building up backup strategies. The user can set up and manage media pools for working days, weekends, specific locations, specific types, databases and more. The virtual DISK-Media are also configured by means of media pools since the pool inherits the directory and capacity information.


Button New Media Pool



Name
identification of the new pool
Description
User comment
Drive Group
selection of a drive group
Media Strategy
OLDEST strategy, i.e. the oldest, unlocked, type-compatible, EOL-free (EndOfLifetime) media of the pool is used
Change Strategy
TIME (avoiding tape winding times) pre-set
Locked [Days]
number of days for which the media must be write protected after an initialization

EOL = EndOfLife is Initialization date + Lockdays
opt.Directory
for DISK_HARD only: specifies the directory on the disk in which the virtual media should be created
opt.Capacity
for DISK_HARD only: specifies the maximum available capacity on the disk for this media pool

This determines the maximum possible number of DISK-media within this pool


Button New Media Event branches to GUI:Scheduling in the appointment calendar.


Button New Media branches to GUI:Components-Media-Initialization.

8.5.5. Media

Media are information carriers used for backup (tapes, disks etc.).
The first window shows the media-archive containing all media prepared for use with SEPsesam.



Label
Identification of the media

always "`pool name + 5-digit number"'
Barcode
Barcode-number of the media, if available
Write Protection
switchable between On/Off

as long as ON is selected, SEPsesam does not use this media for backups
Backup Day
Date of the SEPsesam Backup day
Locked until
The media is not available up to this time

EOL = EndOfLifetime = Backup day + Lockdays of the media pool
Occupancy
occupancy in proportion to the total storage capacity of the media

(sometimes more than 100 % since the capacity in the beginning is only approximately calculable)
Error Delta
change in number of errors compared with the previous day
Button

Properties Media
shows detailed information about media
Initialization
opens a window for data input of a new media
8.5.5.1. Button Properties Media
The button Properties opens the following window:



Media Pool
name of the media pool containing this media (uneditable)
ID
identification number of the media (uneditable)
Write Protection
Selection between On/Off, the media can be overwritten or not
Backup Day
date of the backup day (uneditable)
Locked until
The media is not available up to this time

Caution: Editing possible
Drive Number
Drive in which the media was last used (uneditable)
Next Media
Number of next cartridge (uneditable)
Media Type
Manufacturer identification of the media (uneditable)
Loader
Number of the loader in whose magazine the media is at present (uneditable)
Slot
number of the slot in the loader

Editing possible ( Attention! better archive adjustment {(Details)})
Ok
save the changed media parameters in the database and return to the start screen
Apply
save of the changed media parameters in the database. Entry mask can be used for further changes
Delete
removes the dataset from the archive and closes the entry mask
Cancel
no action and return to the start screen



Label
denotion for media identification
Barcode
barcode number of the media
Occupancy Level(%)
percentage of current filling of a media (uneditable)
Error Count
absolute number
Error Delta
change in number of errors compared with the previous day
Use Count
counts the initialisations of the tape (uneditable)
Duplication
has this media been duplicated (yes/no, uneditable)
Comment
additional information
Ok
save changed media parameters in the database and return to the start screen
Apply
save changed media parameters in the database. Entry mask can be used for further changes
Delete
removes the dataset from the table and closes the entry mask
Cancel
no action and return to the start screen
In the view Savesets all savesets stored on the media are listed.



Task
task name
Date
start time of the backup run
Count
count of the backup executions per backup-day
Saveset
identification of the saveset
Split
is the saveset located on one media (no) or distributed on several media (number of parts)
8.5.5.2. Button Initialization
Here a new media is inserted into the media-archive.



Media Pool
Select one of the configured pools
Drive
Selection of drive in which the media must be initialized (depends on the selected pool)
Media Type
selection of media type (pre-selection depends on drive type)
Get label from media
use already existing label on media
Automatic assign of next number
SEPsesam automatically counts up label numbers for the initialized media.
Button
Function
Start
Start insertion of new media
Cancel
close screen, no insertion

8.6. Tasks

8.6.1. By Clients

Shows all backup tasks, defined for the selected client.


Button Properties shows the details of a task and allows modifications.

Button New backup task shows the following window:



Task Name
user selected identification of a backup task (use digits, letters and underscore (_) only)
Backup Type
type of backup (Path-Backup -
gt; Standard)

Path-Backup - Files, Directories (pre-set)

Registry ( WNT )

System state ( Win2000 )

Lotus Notes

MS Exchange Server

Informix

MS SQL Server

ORACLE

ORACLE7

SAP/R3
Client
selection of a computer from which the backup must be executed

Additional TCPIP names related to a special network route can be specified (Client interface )
Source
Disk, directory, files, which should be backed up

Multisourcing - additional sources are separated by commas
Exclude List
excludes certain files from the backup {(Details)}
Comment
additional information
Ok
Saves the changed task parameters in the database and returns to the start screen
Apply
Saves the changed task parameters in the database. The entry mask can be used for further changes
Delete
removes the dataset from the database and closes the entry mask
Cancel
no action and return to the start screen



The tab "'Options 1"' enables to select from pre-defined Pre/Post-Options for Backups and Restores.
For a backup/restore a selection can be made in "'Change Profile"' from pre-defined profiles and if necessary a modification can be made by clicking the checkbox.


In Options 2 the settings for compression and encryption are set resp. shown.
8.6.1.1. Exclude list
With the exclude list certain directories and files can be excluded from a backup. The indication takes place with regular expressions {(Details)}.

Examples for exclude list
  1. Backing up '/var' without '/var/tmp' but with directory '/var/tmp1':
    \./var/tmp/
  2. Backing up '/var' without any directory '*/tmp*':
    /tmp
  3. Backing up source '/usr' avoiding '*.o', '*.tmp', 'a.out' and 'old*.c' files and all 'old*' directories:
    \.o\$, \.tmp\$, /a\.out\$, /old.*\.c\$, /old.*/
  4. Backing up '/usr' without '/usr/var/spool' and '/usr/var/log':
    \./usr/var/spool/, \./usr/var/log/
  5. Avoid all 'syslog\#\#\#\#.log' files:
    /syslog[0-9]*.log
~
Attention: If you want to exclude a specific path then put entire path in the exclude list. Several excludes require a separation by commas.
8.6.1.2. The Special Backup Types
SEPsesam distinguish between "'path"' backup and special backup types.
The following sources have a special meaning in case of "'path"' backup: ~
The following special backup types are supported at present:

Backup type
licence needed
extern
description
Lotus Notes
yes

Source is name of Lotus Notes Databse
MS Exchange Server
yes

Source is name of Exchange Database (often equals name of Windows server)
Informix
yes
*
Source is name of INFORMIX Databse. An INFORMIX task is started externally with ONBAR on the INFORMIX computer
MS SQL Server
yes

Source is name of SQL Server Database.
MySQL
yes

Source is name of MySQL Database.
ORACLE
yes
*
Source is the ORACLE SID of ORACLE Database. An ORACLE task is started externally with RMAN on the ORACLE computer.
ORACLE7
yes

Source is the ORACLE SID of ORACLE Database. An ORACLE7 task requires SEP sesam2000 client software sbc_ora7. ORACLE7 tasks can be started directly from SEPsesam-Server.
SAP/R3
yes
*
Source is the SAP/R3 ID of SAP/R3 Database. An SAP/R3 task is started externally with BRBACKINT (brbackup/brarchive/brrestore) on SAP/R3 computer.
SLOX
yes

Source for SuSE Linux Openexchange Server is "`all"'.


8.6.2. By Groups

The menu item Tasks by Groups permits a review of all tasks defined by the corresponding task groups. Tasks organized in task groups are processed regardless of the corresponding client with one backup appointment.


Button Properties Taskgroup



Group Name
name of the task group
Comment
additional information


With the arrow button > the available tasks can be assigned, one at a time, to the selected task group. With >> all available tasks can be assigned to the selected task group. With the arrow buttons < and <<, tasks assigned to the selected task group can be removed from it (deassigned).

8.6.3. Backup Schedules

Review of all defined tasks, task groups and backup appointments related to them. Here, backup appointments can be configured branching to scheduling.

8.7. Scheduling

The chapter about the SEPuler {(Details)} describes the time control of textbf{SEPsesam}.

Here, GUI elements for schedules, appointments and the calendar are explained.

8.7.1. Schedules



The window shows all configured schedules and their related appointments.

Using the buttons of the toolbar, timing of all activities in SEPsesam is configured.
The user can create a new schedule or reuse an existing one. Wihin a schedule a new appointment is created and its task is defined. The task is executed at the requested time, and (according to the schedule) is shifted along in the calendar to the next execution time.
8.7.1.1. Properties Schedule - New Schedule



Name
Identification of the schedule
Execute
(De-)Activation of all appointments using this schedule by the user
Duration
Time interval for the execution of a schedule

the date can be entered through a graphical calendar appearing at mouseclick.
Begin
Start time for the repetition cycle. The schedule is valid only after the day for which Begin is specified. The first execution can be performed no earlier than the start time Begin
End
If the checkbox End is activated then the repetition cycle is ended after the selected date, . After the day End no further executions occur. If the checkbox End is not activated, the repetition cycle is unlimited.
Starting Range
Backup task can be started only in this defined period of time
Start
Desired Start of the appointment.

The actual start time of the appointment depends on system load. Each appointment is inserted at start time into a waiting queue at start time. Depending on workload and joblimit of this waiting queue and the schedule priority, execution must wait until all current tasks are completed and there are no tasks of higher priority pending.

For tasks of equal priority the rule FCFS (first come first serve) is valid .
Duration
The user can set up a Starting Range by defining the duration. If execution cannot start in the duration interval, the job is not started.

A variety of settings is offered for the cyclic behavior of a schedule:
8.7.1.2. New Backup Event



Parameters
Description
Priority
Priority ( see Ch.4 Prioritizing )
Backup Type
Selection between the Backup types FULL, DIFF, INC, COPY
Media Pool
Target for the Backup data

The exact label of the target media is determined by the last previously executed media appointment
Drive Group
Specified in the media pool drive group (not editable)

changes at media pool selection
Drive (opt.)
Selection of a drive from the pre-set drive group
Interface (opt.)
selection of additional configured TCP/IP-Name of the client

So the data stream can be directed over a specific network connection permitting undisturbed backup or restore execution without blocking other network activities
Blocking appointment
The appointment is in effect only to block other Backups with the same name when schedules overlap
8.7.1.3. New Media Event


Parameter
Description
Priority
Priority ( see Ch.4 Prioritizing )
Drive Group
Drive

Selection of a drive group.

Advantage: SEPsesam uses the drives belonging to a specific group independently
Drive
Selection of a certain drive
Tape Label
selection of a pre-set tape label (tape identification) from the media pool
Spare Label
selection of a pre-set spare label from the media pool
Media Pool
grouping of media by certain criteria (e.g. by types of media etc.)
Media Strategy
indication of strategy OLD defined in the media pool
Blocking appointment
The appointment is only in effect to block other media appointments for the pool when schedules overlap

A media appointment from the point of its activation defines a specific media of a pool onto which the backups write their data.
The contents of the media are deleted by the appointment.

If the expected media is unavailable at the start of a backup or end of media is reached during data-transfer, then SEPsesam creates an internal media appointment, which provides the next media for the backup.
If no media appointment is configured in the calendar, then always only the internal one is in effect at EOM.
8.7.1.4. New Command Event
The switch textbf{New Command Event} opens following window:



Parameter
Description
Priority
Priority
Name
Identification of the command appointment
Command
complete command
Client
Selection of computer, on which the command should be executed
User
pre-defined user name at the client (access restriction), which may execute this command
Blocking appointment
The appointment is in effect (Prioritising concept ) only to block other command appointments with exactly the same command when schedules overlap


Starts any executable command at the configured client.
Since certain security aspects must be respected it is not possible to execute any command by any user at any client computer.
8.7.1.5. Access Restriction of Command Appointments
UNIX
External commands are executed only when the user name and the command are entered into the file /etc/sesam_cmdusers.allow at the client computer.
Format: '{user} {command}|*' ( * = all commands )
is started with "'su - {user}"'

A template file is available under IV/skel/templates.
Windows
External commands are executed only when the user and the command are entered in the registry of the client computer, in key
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/SOFTWARE/SEP Elektronik GmbH/sesam/
CommandEvents/{user}/{command\}


command
excution
*
all commands
specific command
this command only
cmd /c
all DOS commands ( dir, etc. )
DOS-Command
this command only

8.7.2. Appointments

Gives an overview of configured backup-, media-, command- and newday-appointments.
Those are the appointments which SEPuler permanently checks and (if starting time is reached) executes.


Button Properties shows all information about the appointment.

8.7.3. Calendar Sheet

The calendar sheet provides an overview of all appointments and their current states in an hourly grid.
It also provides a convenient and fast overview of what was executed on the system and what is about to run. With a mouseclick on the entries detailed information can be displayed; it corresponds to GUI:Backups-by Status {(Details)} .

SEPsesam calculates 14 days offline in advance. This information can be displayed very quickly. Days further out in future are calculated online - this may take a little more time.

Changes in schedules are also updated online, thus the user can immediately see the updated calendar.


8.8. Backups

This point is part of the SEPsesam information system.
Here, backups are shown and a large number of selecting and filtering possibilities are offered.

8.8.1. By State

Overview and filtering of all tasks due to state.


After input of the specifications in the time-, client- and status filters above a mouseclick on the button Show displays the desired information.

Hint
Only on MasterSesam the checkbox Server is visible.
Thus the informations on backups of a specific SEPsesam server can be shown.

By clicking the buttons on top of the columns the display is sorted alphabetically or with respect to time due to selected column.

Status filter


in progress
Task already picked up by SEPuler {(Details)}
in queue
The task resides in queue, i.e.the appointment is activated by the SEPuler
active
The task is executing
Not restorable

Cancelled
The Backup task was cancelled during the data transfer
Error
fatal error during execution of the backup task
Restorable

Successfull
Backup successful
Info
depending on operating system some files are not saved
Partly restore

Cancelled
The task was cancelled by the user during the execution

data, that was transferred up to that point in time can be restored (last file potentially inconsistent)


By clicking on (marking) a task in the table and activating the button Properties detailed data about that task are shown.

Info1



Saveset
Saveset
Type
Backup type (F=Full, C=Copy, I=Incremental, D=Differential)
SMS
SMS (1 = yes, 0 = no)
Media count
Count of media, used for the Backup
Size
of the Backup in Bytes
Used Labels
List of used media
Message
Detailed status information


Info2


Info3 shows information about encryption and compression.

Protocol In the backup protocol messages about backup execution for the selected task are denoted.
PRE-Log
Messages of the Pre-Interface, which was started before the backup execution

POST-Log
Messages of the Post-Interface, which was started after the backup execution

8.8.2. Statistic

Graphical representation of the various states of the selected backup tasks.


8.9. Restore

8.9.1. By State

Here the information system of SEPsesam presents the executed restores with the same filter- and selection possibilities as for backups.

8.10. Monitoring

8.10.1. Processes

Shows the processes and central information of SEPsesam.



VERSION='server,1.6.3.4,200205021247'
Version number of the Server
OS=Windows_NT
Operating system
gv_ro='C:\su\'
Install directory of read only files
gv_rw='d:\su\'
Install dircetory of read write files
main=654
Process identifiers of SEPsesam processes
sepuler=658

db=669

qm=667

rmi=678

sms=530

stpd=420

passd=460

ctrl=527

STATUS=ONLINE

8.10.2. Drives

Shows the queues of the drives.
Having selected all (*) or only a single drive and activating the button Show, SEPsesam will list the information about the queues.
The queues are managed by the queuemanager. Details)} and several other internal processes submit their tasks as jobs to the queue manager, which coordinates the execution.


8.11. Logging

SEPsesam creates two protocols for each backup day, the status- and the day-protocol.

These informations are (contrary to the above mentioned displays of backups derived from the SEPsesam database) created as files in {ID}/var/prot and can be used for further processing ( print, email ) if needed.

Attention
A backup day is framed by two NEWDAY-appointments {(Details)} .

The selection of time interval enables restrictions to output, which is started by clicking button Show.

8.11.1. State

SEPsesam creates a status-protocol, where one information row is written for each backup started in chronological order .


Function of the buttons:


Server
only MasterSesam : view protocol of other SEPsesam servers
Show
shows selected interval
Help
Online-Help
Send
sending the protocol-file via an email to SEP AG

( have to be configured and released {(Details)} )
Print
printing the protocol-file to default printer

8.11.2. Daily Protocol

SEPsesam continuously writes a protocol for each backup day. All modules write messages with a time stamp attached to it. Each message contains a unique code consisting of message type ( I=information, W=warning, E=error ), number and originating module.

These protocols are the first and most important start point for problem analysis.
The user can find detailed help for problems and reuse it for the support message {(Details)}.


9. Appendix

9.1. Exchange 2000 Server

9.1.1. Installation - System Requirements

9.1.2. Backup



Create a new backup task of type Exchange Server.
Input for source may be one of the following:

backup of database
<host>\Microsoft Information Store \Test_GR\ \Test_DB

backup of a instance
<host>\Microsoft Information Store \Test_GR

backup of a Exchange2000 component
<host>\Microsoft Information Store

backup of full servers
<host>

It's recommended to create a backup task with source system_state for the Active Directory Server and to execute it after each backup of Exchange, because the Exchange Server stores its users in the Active Directory.

9.1.3. Truncate Log Files

After a Full or Incr Backup the ESE function HrESEBackupTruncateLogs is called. The HrESEBackupTruncateLogs function examines the storage group log files, and deletes those that are no longer needed to fully restore the storage group. In case of Diff or Copy Backup the log files are not deleted. Thus multiple backup of the log files are possible.

9.1.4. Restore

Before starting the restore the appropriate databases of Exchange System Manager have to be set offline.


To restore the data of an Exchange backup, the SEPsesam restore-wizzard is launched.


After successful restore, the database of Exchange has to be set online ( use system manager of Exchange ).

Caution
In case of restore from differential and incremental backups use the generation restore to avoid inconsistent Exchange databases {(Details)}.
9.1.4.1. Restore of an Exchange Instance to Another Exchange Server


9.1.4.2. Recovery of a Corrupted Exchange Database
In order to recover a corrupted database, click with right mouse key on the database in Exchange's system manager.
Go to tab "'database"' and activate option "'Overwrite database during restore"'.
Delete all files within directory of instance ( but not the directory itself ) and set database offline. Now the instance is ready for restore.
After successful restore, the database of Exchange will have to be set online ( use system manager of Exchange ).

9.1.5. Single Mailbox

9.1.5.1. Installation - System Requirements
Installation of Exmerge In order to backup an Exchange Single Mailbox the additional program Exmerge of Microsoft is needed. It must be copied and the according DLL files need to be installed into {ID}/bin/sesam directory at the client.

Adjusting of file {ID}/var/ini/sm.ini
Examples:
[SBC_DATABASE]
DB_CLIENTS = SBCLN:SBCLN.DLL,SBCMSQL:SBCMSQL.DLL,SBCEX2KM:EX2K.DLLl

To create file sbcex2km.ini please call sm_setup set_ex2k.
Check values in sbcex2km.ini !

sbcex2km.ini

[SBC Configuration]
PathToExMergeExecutable = C:\Programme\SEPsesam\bin\sesam\exmerge.exe

[EXMERGE]
LogFileName=C:\Programme \SEPsesam \var \log \ExMerge.log
DataDirectoryName=C:\Programme\SEPsesam\var\EXMERGEDATA
9.1.5.2. Backup
The following input for source creates a backup of the mailbox Administrator:
Org1\Test site1\QSWNT2000,Administrator

The following input for source creates a backup of several mailboxes:
Org1\Test site1\QSWNT2000,User1,User2

Several mailboxes can be inserted by separating with a comma.
9.1.5.3. Restore
In order to restore a Single Mailbox use the restore-wizzard and select the task of the corresponding backup.

9.2. MS-SQL Server

Requirements: The computer with the MS-SQL-database was configured as SEPsesam client ( in the example below qswnt400 ) {(Details)}.

In order to backup a MS-SQL-database follow these steps:

Create a new task in GUI:Tasks-by Clients {(Details)}.


For the task ( here qswnt400_msql2 ) the backup-type MS SQL Server is defined and the database client selected ( here qswnt400 ).
Source is the name which is also shown by MS-SQL-Server ( here myxxxdb ).



All types of backup (full, differential, incremental) copy the transaction loggings, too. Whereby type incremental only copies those loggings.

Restore of a MS-SQL-Database

Select the name of the desired MS-SQL-backup in Restore-Wizzard's dropdown and press button Next.


Then select the specific saveset ( point-of-time of backup ), and activate option completely restore selected task.



In final screen select Restore to original target path and start the restore.


9.3. SuSE Linux OpenExchange Server

9.3.1. Installation - Requirements

9.3.2. Offline Backup

To start a SuSE Linux OpenExchange Server Backup, you have to go through the following steps:
Create a new Backup task with Backup type SuSE Linux OpenExchange Server (Details). If you chose "`all"' as your source, all of the relevant SLOX data will be saved offline. To backup specific services you have to use the following keywords:

9.3.3. Online Backup

Before starting a SuSE Linux OpenExchange Online backup, configurate the file /etc/openldap/slapd.conf at the SuSE Linux OpenExchange Server. Insert those entries:
# Access controll
#

access to *
       by peername="ip=127\.0\.0\.1" read stop

# Private AddressBook
access to dn="ou=addr,uid=(.*),dc=sep,dc=de"
by dn="uid=$1,dc=sep,dc=de" write  by * none
After modifying, restart the LDAP service with the command rcldap start


Select under GUI: Scheduling > Schedules > New Schedule a SuSE Linux OpenExchange Server task, that you have entered (Details). Additionally you can choose the option Online resp. Offline. If online is chosen, all services will run during the backup, with offline the services will stop (Details).

9.3.4. Restore

Select your SLOX backup in the first Window of the Restore-Wizzard (Details) and press Next. In the next window choose your specific backupsaveset and mark the option completely restore selected task. During the resotre all the services will stop and start right after the Restore.

9.3.5. Single Mailbox Restore

In order to restore a Single Mailbox please edit the /<sesam_root>/var/ini/sm_slox.ini. Insert the SLOX - Cyrus Password under cyrus_passwd=yourPassword To restore complete mailboxes or single mails of SLOX users, select your SuSE Linux OpenExchange Server saveset in the Restore Wizzard and continue with Next.


After this select the the mailboxes or mail you want to restore and continue with Next.


You can choose between four different restore-options.
  1. overwrite existing files
    If you select this option, all existing mails in the mailbox will be overwrited resp. replaced.
  2. other Mailuser
    If you select this option, the whole mailbox and/or the single mails will be restored in the chosen restore-user. It's possible to use the option "`overwrite existing files"', too.
    Example
    The mailbox of the user will be created in a new mail-user (restore_user).
    restore_user/...
    restore_user/sent-mail/...
    restore_user/drafts/...
  3. new restore folder
    With this option the whole mailbox and/or single mails of the user will be restored in its mailbox in a new subfolder. It's possible to use the option "`overwrite existing files"' too.
    Example
    The mailbox of the user will create a new subfolder (restore_folder) in the same mailbox.
    Benutzer/restore_folder/...
    Benutzer/restore_folder/sent-mail/...
    Benutzer/restore_folder/drafts/...
  4. other mailuser and new restore folder
    Option two and three linked. It's possible to use the option "`overwrite existing files"' too.
    Example
    The mailbox of the user will be created in a new mailboxuser (restore_user) and in a subfolder (restore_folder)
    restore_user/restore_folder/...
    restore_user/restore_folder/sent-mail/...
    restore_user/restore_folder/drafts/...
If your restored mailbox isn't shown in SuSE Linux OpenExchange Webinterface, you have to add it manually. You can do this by Setup > Folder > Subscribe, select the folders you have restored and continue with Save. Now you can see the Folder in your webinterface.

9.4. Overview of Regular Expressions

Regular expressions define a syntax for search patterns to find matches in an input data stream.
There are certain meta characters representing parts of input data or mode of iteration.
The most important are listed below:
Meta    description            example    matchings  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
.       any single character   .ouse      'house','mouse', but not 'ouse'

*       preceding char. may    Hello*!    'Hell!','Helloooooo!'
        appear 0 or multiple   xx.*yy     'xxyy','xxAyy','xx12345678yy'
        times         

?       preceding char. may    Hello?!    'Hell!','Hello!'
        appear 0 or 1 times

+       preceding char. may    Hello+!    'Hello!','Helloooooo!'
        appear 1 or multiple
        times          

^       line beginning         ^CWnd      'CWnd ...'

$       line ending            ()$        '... ()'

[]      any char. enclosed     r[oe]+d    'red','reed','rod','rood','reeoood' 
        in brackets       

[-]     from/to alphabetical   n[0-9]     'n0','n1',..,'n9'
                               G[a-z]+H   'GmbH','GasdH'
                               
[^]     exclude chararcters    n[^0-9]    'na','nA','n_'

()      group characters       (abc)+     'xxabcyy','xxabcabcyy'
        
{n}     exactly n characters   a{6}       'xx aaaaaa yy'
                               [0-9]{4}   4-digit number

{n,}    at least n chars.      a{4,}      'xx aaaaaaaaayy'; not 'xxaaay'

{n,m}   min.n,max.m chars.     a{4,6}     'xx aaaaayy'
                                          not 'xxaaay','qqaaaaaaaa 21'


\       annuls the function    \(abc\)    '(abc)'
        of meta chars.         100\$      100$