We currently run D2D2T for backups, but we are reaching our capacity for both disc space as well as space in our tape auto loader. I was originally looking to replacing out current auto loader (AIT) with a newer auto loader (LTO3/LTO4) for added capacity as well as the speed increase. The issue here is that we use BE 9.1, and we do not have a current maintenance plan with Symantec. The costs to upgrade our BE software would be 3-4x the cost of a new auto loader due to the agents that are needed. Due to our tight fiscal situation, I am trying to see what other options are out there. Here are my initial thoughts, and I would appreciate some advice if possible.
-setup a NAS utilizing SATA drives in a RAID array for the initial D2D backups. Our current D2D utilizes SCSI storage, but I would like to look into SATA for the cost factor. This is for capacity/BE 9.1 compatibility.
-purchase a new auto loader, except I would not use BE 9.1 with it. Instead, I would use NTBackup for the D2T operation. This would simply be my way of utilizing the agents for BE 9.1 to do the initial D2D backup, and then NTBackup for the D2T routine.
My fears are the that there would be a drop in reliability when using SATA drives as opposed to SCSI, and that NTBackup will not work well with a LTO4 auto loader.
-setup a NAS utilizing SATA drives in a RAID array for the initial D2D backups. Our current D2D utilizes SCSI storage, but I would like to look into SATA for the cost factor. This is for capacity/BE 9.1 compatibility.
-purchase a new auto loader, except I would not use BE 9.1 with it. Instead, I would use NTBackup for the D2T operation. This would simply be my way of utilizing the agents for BE 9.1 to do the initial D2D backup, and then NTBackup for the D2T routine.
My fears are the that there would be a drop in reliability when using SATA drives as opposed to SCSI, and that NTBackup will not work well with a LTO4 auto loader.