AppleShare: Server Maintenance and Backup Questions



What is the best and safest way to operate a file server? AppleShare 2.0
and an Internet router on a Macintosh IIfx.

When I need to install software on the server, I need access to the Server
Folder. I have to shut down the server and start up a floppy. This
presents a problem, because the Internet router is running -- which
disconnects my users from printer access. I know I could move the Router
to another unit, but it seems more appropriate to have it on a dedicated
unit.

Also, I need to have the database users log off of the databases in order
to do a clean backup, so perhaps an automatic backup software package
would be better so it could run at night. Also, the backup software
selected must be compatible with AppleShare's concurrent software
philosophy.

Other than installing software through a remote node, I don't know of any
way of installing software on an AppleShare server short of bringing the
server down to do it. Secondly, it seems impossible to back up a database
that is in use on a server.

You are correct in your assumptions of the way the system works. To
install the software on the server you must bring the system down, which
will cause the router to go down. The best time to do network maintenance
and upgrades on a large network or on a network that cannot be brought down
is at night or on the weekend.

If you back up a database file that is opened, you will not get a proper
backup. Any files that are open will not be saved. It is best to do this
after hours, also.

There are many backup programs that start at a specified time. That should
be the best solution.


Published Date: Feb 18, 2012