Langmeier Backup 12: How to deduplicate data backup
Deduplication of backup data is often an important feature for business users. Deduplication reduces the amount of storage space required for backup. In this article, we will show you how to deduplicate backup data with Langmeier Backup.
Adding deduplication as a server feature
Deduplication is added as a server feature, usually via Server Manageror alternatively via PowerShell. It depends on file and storage services. If these have already been set up, then you need to expand the tree below that role where you will find Data Deduplication.
Installing the feature sets the stage for deduplication, but enabling it is done on a per-volume basis. This can be done both when creating new volumes and by configuring existing ones. If there is already a lot of data on a drive, then you have to expect that the recovery of disk space will take some time.
Wizard for new volumes enables deduplication
If you want to create a new volume, select File/ Storage Services in the left navigation bar of the Server Manager and then go to Disk or Storage Pools. There you can set up volumes or virtual dis ks in the lower left window. The wizard responsible for this offers a separate dialog for activating and configuring deduplication.
Here you can define after how many days a new or modified file will be processed (measured by Last Modified). The default is 5 days, but you can also set the value to zero, so that deduplication takes effect regardless of the age of a file. The wizard also offers the possibility to exclude certain file types based on their extension.
Time-controlled optimization of storage space
Another setting allows the time-controlled execution of deduplication as a supplement or alternative to the background process. Explicitly starting the memory saver via schedules is interesting if a server is so busy during the day that the background process does not get enough resources.
Another option, which can be reached via the command (Configure deduplication) in the context menu of volumes, allows the exclusion of entire directories. In this dialog you can also deactivate deduplication. This prevents files from being processed in the future, but the already deduplicated files are not restored to their original state.
The system requirements to use deduplication are as follows:
About the Author Urs Langmeier Founder and CEO of Langmeier Software
I don't want to complicate anything. I don't want to develop the ultimate business software. I don't want to be listed in a top technology list. Because that's not what business applications are about. It's about making sure your data is seamlessly protected. And it's about making sure everything runs smoothly while you maintain full control and focus on growing your business. Simplicity and reliability are my guiding principles and inspire me every day.
