[NTLUG:Discuss] backup options?

[Jonathan Miller]

You neglected to mention the most important thing, how much (as in MB, GB,
TB) you are planning back up. 

As far as software goes, nothing beats the free stuff. I personally like
AMANDA. I've used it with quite a few HP tape drives. Works out really
well. Only problem is that when using it tar couldn't handle more than a
GB or two and it would freak out on large backups.

As far as hardware goes, everyone generally uses tape, but I have grown to
hate it. I think the best way to go is to just get a couple gigantic disks
and backup to there. You can mount and unmount them at your leisure. Maybe
I have a strong magnetic field but tapes degrade on me so fast by the time
I actually have to use them they are shot. That's never good.

Hard drives win in speed, ease of use (no software to install), size,
price, and reliablity. 

Get yourself some enclosures and they are portable too!