Restoring Data with VBM Files

VBM Files and Data Restoration

For those new to the term, VBM stands for Virtual Backup Media, which are crucial in locating and restoring data efficiently from backups. If you’re curious about the intricacies of VBM files, you might find our detailed exploration in a previous blog post enlightening.

With the foundation laid, this guide focuses on leveraging VBM files for data restoration, ensuring you can recover your essential data seamlessly and accurately. Let’s dive into the preparatory steps vital for a smooth restoration process.

Preparing for Data Restoration

Proper preparation is essential for a successful data restoration from VBM files. This technical guide outlines the critical preparatory steps, incorporating specific software references and technical details.

1. Performing a Backup Integrity Check with Veeam Backup & Replication

• Tool: Veeam Backup & Replication.
• Action: Utilize the ‘Backup Copy’ job feature to verify the integrity of your VBM files and associated backup data. Navigate to the ‘Backup & Replication’ tab, right-click the backup job, and select ‘Properties’ > ‘Maintenance’ > ‘Perform backup files health check’.
• Expected Outcome: A report detailing the health and integrity of your backup files, ensuring they are free from corruption.

2. Ensuring Software Compatibility

• Check: Verify that the version of Veeam Backup & Replication you are using supports the format of your VBM files. This is crucial if the backups were created with an older version of the software.
• Compatibility List: Refer to Veeam’s documentation for a list of compatible software versions and supported backup formats.

3. Updating Software to the Latest Version

• Software: Veeam Backup & Replication.
• Procedure: Access the ‘Help’ menu and select ‘Check for Updates’ to ensure your software is up to date. Install any available updates to benefit from the latest features and bug fixes.

4. Configuring the Restoration Environment

• Storage Considerations: Ensure there is sufficient disk space available for the restoration. The required space is at least equal to the size of the data being restored.
• Network Configuration: If restoring to a remote location, configure your network settings to allow for data transfer. This might include setting up VPN connections or adjusting firewall settings.

5. Reviewing Restoration Procedures

• Documentation: Consult the Veeam Backup & Replication User Guide for detailed instructions on restoration procedures. Pay special attention to sections on ‘Restoring from VBM files’ to familiarize yourself with the process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Restoring Data from VBM Files

This guide provides a technical walkthrough for restoring data from VBM backup files, using Veeam Backup & Replication as a reference.

1. Locating the VBM File

• Location: Find the VBM file within the backup repository. It’s typically named after the backup job (e.g., YourBackupJobName.vbm).

2. Launching Veeam Backup & Replication

• Procedure: Open Veeam Backup & Replication and navigate to the ‘Backup & Replication’ view.

3. Selecting the Restore Point

• Action: Right-click the backup job in the inventory panel and select ‘Restore’ > ‘Entire VM restore’ or ‘Guest files restore’ depending on your need. The software will use the VBM file to list available restore points.

4. Choosing Data for Restoration

• Selection: From the restore wizard, select the specific files, folders, or VMs you wish to restore. Use the file browser for granular selection if restoring guest files.

5. Specifying the Restoration Destination

• Destination: Choose whether to restore to the original location or a new one. For a new location, specify the path or the VM host settings.

6. Executing the Restoration Process

• Process: Click ‘Restore’ to start the process. Monitor the task in the ‘History’ tab for progress updates and potential errors.

7. Verifying Restored Data

• Verification: Once restoration is complete, manually check the restored data for integrity and completeness. Use file comparison tools or checksum verification for accuracy.

Advanced Settings and Options for Restoration

Maximizing the effectiveness of your data restoration from VBM files involves leveraging advanced settings in Veeam Backup & Replication. These options can enhance the restoration process, providing greater control and flexibility.

1. Using Instant VM Recovery

• Feature: Instant VM Recovery allows you to run a virtual machine directly from a backup file without waiting for the entire restore process to complete.
• Procedure: In the Veeam Backup & Replication console, navigate to the ‘Backup & Replication’ tab, right-click the desired backup, and select ‘Instant VM Recovery’. Follow the wizard to specify VM settings and start the VM in an isolated environment.

2. Applying Granular Restoration for Application Items

• Capability: Veeam provides granular recovery options for specific applications like Microsoft Exchange, SharePoint, SQL, and Active Directory.
• Action: Choose ‘Application Items Restore’ in the restoration wizard. Select the application type and proceed with the application-specific restoration process, allowing for item-level recovery.

3. Restoration to Cloud Environments

• Integration: Veeam supports restoring backups directly to cloud environments such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Configuration: Within the ‘Restore’ menu, select ‘Cloud Restore’, and choose your cloud provider. Configure the virtual machine settings according to your cloud environment and initiate the restore.

Validating Data Integrity Post-Restoration

Ensuring the integrity and completeness of your restored data is crucial. This section outlines the steps to verify data post-restoration using technical tools and procedures.

1. Checksum Verification

• Tool: Use a file checksum integrity verifier tool, such as FCIV or the PowerShell Get-FileHash cmdlet.
• Procedure: Generate checksums of the original data and compare them with the restored data. Discrepancies indicate data corruption or incomplete restoration.

2. Manual File and Folder Comparison

• Method: Employ file comparison tools, such as WinMerge or Beyond Compare, to visually inspect and compare original and restored files and directories.
• Objective: Ensure that file structures, contents, and properties match exactly between the original and restored data sets.

3. Application-Specific Data Verification

• Practice: For databases or application-specific data, use the application’s built-in tools for data integrity checks. For SQL databases, run a DBCC CHECKDB. For Exchange, use the Eseutil tool to verify mailbox databases.

4. Log Review and System Testing

• Review: Examine restoration logs for errors or warnings that may indicate issues during the process.
• Testing: Conduct system tests to ensure applications and services are functioning correctly with the restored data, simulating real-world usage scenarios.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Restoring data from VBM files is a critical task that underscores the importance of a robust backup and recovery strategy. After a successful restoration:

• Verify the restored data’s functionality and ensure all systems operate smoothly.
• Review the restoration process to identify and document key takeaways and areas for improvement.
• Evaluate and adjust your backup strategy as necessary to better meet your organization’s needs.
• Implement regular backup and restoration testing to ensure readiness for any future data recovery scenarios.
• Update training and documentation to reflect any changes in procedures or technology.

This approach not only secures your data but also prepares your team for efficient and effective response in the face of data loss.