VERITAS Software backs Natal Agricultural Corporation

VERITAS Software Corporation, the Data Availability Company, today announced that agricultural giant, Natalse Landbou ko"opersie Bpk (NLK), has implemented VERITAS Backup Exec for Windows NT to archive its terminal, file and Exchange servers. Operating in a knowledge-based environment where data is central to the running of its operation, data backup is considered essential.

At NLK, the backup drive is run on a file server, meaning that the users store their data to the file server, and from the file server it is backed up onto tape. The NT servers are up and running all the time due to the critical nature of the processes they support, making the open file option provided by the VERITAS product vital for NLK`s operation.

"Our users are often running jobs after-hours, or even through the night. Backing up crucial databases online is vital to safeguard critical company information," says Krish Kali, network administrator at NLK. "This allows us to protect data without interrupting users, saving time and ensuring that important information is continuously accessible. Traditionally a file in use meant that no backup could be completed. With VERITAS Backup Exec however, it simply means that that specific file will be skipped, while the rest of the backup continues as usual."

One of the most important servers within the NLK environment is the Exchange or mail server. "Electronic mail has become a crucial part of our business and it often carries critical information - information that we cannot afford to lose," explains Kali.

"VERITAS Backup Exec Agent for Microsoft Exchange Server is a flexible way to protect Exchange 5.5 and Exchange 2000 Server data while the application is online," says Nick van Noordwyk, regional director, Middle East and Africa at VERITAS Software. Administrators therefore have the flexibility to perform individual mailbox backup with selective restore down to the individual message."

Kali suggest that the fact that online help that is available straight from the VERITAS Web site, is yet another bonus of the product. The backup log sent to the administrator via electronic mail provides him with a complete status report regarding the backup process further simplifies the use of this product. "Without this functionality I would have to physically go to the server and determine each individual server`s status, and the bigger the operation the bigger the headache associated with this," concludes Kali.