Data Protection Server Under Development

Data Protection Server (DPS), a new Microsoft server product planned for the second half of 2005, will provide Windows-based file servers with an intermediate hard disk–based backup-and-restore facility before data is backed up onto tape. DPS will allow backups to be taken many times per day, dramatically reduce file restore times, and let users restore files without IT assistance. However, the first release will protect ordinary files only; it will not back up all data on the server and will exclude data in databases such as the Windows Registry, Exchange, and SQL Server.

A public beta release of DPS is scheduled for the first quarter of 2005.

Overcoming Limitations of Traditional Tape Backup

DPS is designed to mitigate some traditional tape backup problems, including the following:

Long restore times and increased IT workload. When restoring data from tape, a data-center operator must locate and mount the correct tape, find the files or directories in question, and restore them to either the original location or an alternate location. This process results in lost productivity for the user, help desk, and data-center personnel.