Setting Up Domino's Native Backup: A Hands-On Guide

Why Native Backup Matters

If you've been juggling third-party backup solutions for your Domino servers, you know the drill: compatibility issues, complex configurations, and sometimes, less-than-ideal integration. With Domino 12, HCL introduced a native backup and restore feature that simplifies the process, offering a seamless way to protect your data without external tools. Let's dive into setting it up.

Prerequisites

Before we get our hands dirty, ensure:

• Domino Version: You're running Domino 12 or later. This feature isn't available in earlier versions.
• Operating System: Your server is on Windows or Linux. The native backup doesn't support other Operating Systems.

Step 1: Initialize the Backup Database

First things first, we need to create the dominobackup.nsf database, which will house our backup configurations and logs.

• Run the Backup Task: Open your Domino console and execute:

`` load backup ``

This command initializes the backup database. If it's the first run, Domino will create dominobackup.nsf in the data directory.

• Verify Creation: Navigate to your Domino data directory and confirm the presence of dominobackup.nsf.

Step 2: Configure Backup Settings

With the backup database in place, let's set up the backup configurations.

1. Open dominobackup.nsf: Using the Domino Administrator client, access the backup database.
2. Create a New Configuration:

- Platform Selection: Choose between 'Default' (applies to multiple servers) or 'Server' (specific to one server). For most setups, 'Default' suffices.

- Backup Paths: Specify directories for storing backup files. Ensure these paths have adequate storage and permissions.

- Excluded Databases: If there are databases you don't want to back up, list them here.

- Schedule: Define when backups should run. Regular scheduling ensures consistent data protection.

For a detailed breakdown of each configuration field, refer to the official documentation.

1. Save and Close: Once configured, save your settings.

Step 3: Schedule the Backup Task

To automate backups:

1. Create a Program Document:

- Program Name: backup

- Command Line: Leave this blank.

- Server to Run On: Specify your server.

- Schedule: Set the desired frequency and time for backups.

1. Save the Document: This schedules the backup task as per your configuration.

Step 4: Test the Backup

Before relying on the setup:

• Manually Run the Backup: In the Domino console, execute:

`` load backup ``

• Monitor the Process: Check the console for any errors. Also, verify that backup files are created in the specified directories.

Step 5: Restore a Database

Testing the restore process ensures your backups are reliable.

1. Open dominobackup.nsf: Navigate to the 'Restore' view.
2. Select a Database: Choose a database to restore.
3. Restore Options: Decide whether to restore to the original location or an alternate one. You can also choose to restore deleted documents.
4. Initiate Restore: Click 'Restore' and monitor the process.

For more insights on the restore process, check out the Domino Backup Introduction.

To Review

Setting up Domino's native backup isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about ensuring your data's safety without unnecessary complexity. By following these steps, you integrate a robust backup solution directly into your Domino environment. Remember, regular testing of both backup and restore processes is crucial. After all, a backup is only as good as its restore.

For a visual walkthrough, consider watching this HCL Domino Backup/Restore Function video.