how to start a good backup server? drive imaging?

[BKLounger]

So lately I have been working from home on my home machines more and also my gf is back in school. So i decided that i finally need to make sure there are images and backups laying around in case anything happens we won't be out that much time. I have been researching for about a week but just seem to be going in 50 different paths. As for software to take a good image of the drive to backup from i have seen programs from acronis and norton ghost seem to be popular. Anything better? Also now for the big part I really want to create a setup where a backup of 2 different machines will be made every night at a certain time. Would it be best for another machine? or maybe a nas box hooked up to the network. If possible I would want to use windows incase I am away the gf would be able to work with it as well. Any direction or help to get on a more narrow path would be appreciated.

 

[nweaver]

I would do a fresh OS install image with an imaging tool (any would work) and then use NT Backup (Assuming XP) to a network drive. Frequency/type depends on your risk tolerance. A good start would be Monthly full, with weekly incrementals. You should spool the backups to tape/DVD. I would store the incremental's onsite, and the full's offsite. For a home, this should be adaquate.

 

[JackMDS]

Acronis TrueImage9.

:sun:

 

[BKLounger]

thanks for the idea. I hate to say this but i was thinking more likely night backups. my gf is using a dell laptop that is only two weeks old but has broken twice already so i want to make sure her data is backed up automatically every night. Yes it will be xp pro on both laptops. I am going to be keeping the monthly fulls at a relatives house on dvd. Would it be better to use a nas for the network drive or just setup a computer for it?