Exploring Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9: A Game-Changer for Data Protection

Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 has arrived with a set of features that make it a compelling option for businesses that want flexibility without locking themselves into expensive, dedicated hardware—all while offering robust recovery and security options. In this detailed overview, we’ll delve into what makes version 10.9 an attractive choice, the real-world deployment on popular hardware like Qnap NAS systems, and the trade-offs that come along with its versatile architecture.

A New Breed in Backup Solutions​

While many backup solutions require a dedicated Windows Server host, Nakivo’s latest iteration shatters these constraints. The software is designed to run on virtually any platform, including:

• Windows and Linux hosts
• Virtualization platforms such as VMware vSphere and Hyper-V
• Nutanix AHV, AWS EC2, and even Raspberry Pi
• Leading NAS appliances like Qnap and Synology

This diversity in supported platforms offers businesses enormous flexibility. Whether you’re running a small office environment or managing a large-scale data center, Nakivo’s commitment to running ‘where you want’ makes it an attractive option for organizations looking to avoid vendor lock-in. In fact, small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) that want to avoid the overhead and complexity of a dedicated server environment will find this solution especially appealing.
Key points:

• Versatile platform support minimizes dependency on specific hardware.
• Perfect for SMBs seeking cost-effective and flexible backup solutions.

Architecture: Three Pillars of Reliability​

Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 is built on a modular architecture that combines three core service components:

• Director:
• A web-based management console where you configure, monitor, and manage your backup tasks.
• Transporter:
• The component responsible for handling backup, replication, and recovery operations.
• It gets pushed to protected endpoints, whether you’re safeguarding physical servers or virtual machines.
• Repository:
• Dedicated storage for your backup data.
• Repositories can be created on local storage, network shares, or even cloud stores, giving you plenty of options to suit your storage needs.

This clear separation of roles not only simplifies initial setup but also makes ongoing management more straightforward. Administrators can quickly identify and troubleshoot issues in the specific area that might be experiencing hiccups. The streamlined web interface (Director) ensures that even those less familiar with command-line operations can efficiently manage backup operations.
Key points:

• Modular architecture ensures ease of management and troubleshooting.
• Each component plays a distinct role, improving overall system reliability.

Deployment: A Walkthrough on Qnap NAS​

In one illustrative test scenario, the team deployed Nakivo’s NBR on a Qnap TS-855eU-RP short-depth 8-bay rack NAS running QuTS Hero. This choice highlights the capability of NBR to run directly on network-attached storage, bypassing the need for a dedicated server. Here’s how the process unfolded:

• Repository Setup:
  The Qnap appliance came with a default local repository on its system SSDs. However, to maximize storage capacity and performance, an additional repository was created on a large-capacity RAID5 pool.
• Note: When creating the repository, users must manually provide the absolute path, which requires accessing the system via an SSH session and running a Linux List command.
• Integrating with Inventory:
  The software automatically discovered various systems:
• For physical Windows hosts and workstations, the transporter service was pushed seamlessly.
• For virtualization platforms such as Hyper-V and VMware vSphere, the setup was equally straightforward. While Hyper-V required a simple transporter agent deployment, vSphere backups leveraged an agentless approach—only requiring the host’s credentials for monitoring and backup.

The deployment on a Qnap NAS showcased not just ease-of-installation but also underscored the product’s ability to work on non-traditional platforms, making it ideal for environments where using a dedicated Windows Server isn’t feasible.
Key points:

• Deployment on Qnap illustrates the flexibility of running on NAS appliances.
• Simple repository creation and inventory integration make setup accessible even for non-experts.

Backup Job Creation and Schedule Management​

Creating backup jobs in Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 is a streamlined process that hinges on its intuitive design:

• Backup Job Configuration:
  Users begin by choosing which systems from their inventory need protection. Whether it’s a set of physical servers, VMs running on Hyper-V, or the entire VMware vSphere host (with new VMs automatically added to the schedule), the options are extensive and user-friendly.
• Scheduling Flexibility:
  The solution offers detailed scheduling options—daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly recovery points can be configured to align with your organization’s recovery point objectives.
• Additional Features:
• For environments where malware poses a threat, a separate “scan server” is designated where third-party antivirus software is installed.
• Protection extends to all MS365 components, including Exchange, SharePoint, OneDrive, and even Microsoft Teams.

This granular control over backup schedules means that businesses can tailor their data protection strategies precisely to their operational rhythms and risk profiles. The automated handling of VM backups further reduces administrative overhead, ensuring that any newly introduced systems don’t slip through the cracks.
Key points:

• User-friendly backup job creation simplifies protecting diverse environments.
• Detailed scheduling options ensure effective data retention and recovery planning.

Integrating Malware and MS365 Protection​

A noteworthy enhancement in version 10.9 is the integrated malware protection, a move that resonates strongly in today’s cybersecurity landscape:

• Malware Protection:
  The software now integrates with various third-party antivirus products. This synergy means that when a backup is taken, it can be “scanned” for potential malware threats—all without needing to run separate security processes.
• MS365 and Cloud-Based Protection:
  Recognizing the growing reliance on cloud productivity tools, Nakivo has extended support to protect MS365 components. This integration isn’t just about file backup; it includes granular restoration for:
• MS365 emails
• SharePoint documents
• OneDrive files
• Microsoft Teams data

There’s a caveat, though: MS365 licenses require a separate subscription model (for instance, ten users cost around £252 per year). Additionally, the backup for these components necessitates a special SaaS repository. In one test scenario, users noticed that this repository wasn’t natively supported on QuTS Hero 5.1. However, Nakivo’s support suggested a clever workaround—creating an iSCSI target on the Qnap appliance and mapping it to a Windows system running the transporter service. While not the most elegant solution, it indeed did the job.
Key points:

• Integrated malware scanning enhances security during the backup process.
• MS365 component support is comprehensive, though it may require extra configuration and cost considerations.

Recovery: Fast, Flexible, and Failure-Proof​

When it comes to recovery, Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 stands out from the pack with its robust, multi-faceted approach:

• Bare Metal Recovery:
  With the new Bootable Media Wizard, users can restore entire physical Windows or Linux servers directly from selected backups. This capability is critical in scenarios where hardware failures demand quick and full system restoration.
• Granular Restoration:
  Beyond full system recovery, the software supports granular file and folder restorations. This feature extends to:
• MS365 items down to individual documents or emails
• SQL databases where precise point-in-time recovery may be needed
• On-premises Exchange objects for targeted restores
• Disaster Recovery and VM Replication:
  Flash Boot jobs allow for the speedy creation of new virtual machines directly from the backup repository. Furthermore, the solution facilitates VM replication by cloning backups—a key feature for organizations that need to minimize downtime during catastrophic failures.

In a world where data breaches, malware infections, and hardware malfunctions can occur at any time, having a backup solution that can quickly revert to healthy states is invaluable. By combining traditional backup techniques with modern disaster recovery practices, Nakivo 10.9 ensures that businesses are well-prepared for the worst-case scenarios.
Key points:

• Fast bare metal recovery supports rapid response during hardware failures.
• Granular restore options reduce downtime and data loss during targeted recoveries.
• Disaster recovery features like Flash Boot jobs minimize disruption.

Licensing and Cost Considerations​

One of the biggest selling points of Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 is its flexible licensing model. This product is available in five different versions, with options covering both perpetual licenses and per-workload subscriptions. The pricing structure is transparent enough to be navigated via an online cost calculator—a tool that helps prospective customers understand their investment immediately.

• Licensing Options:
• Perpetual licenses for businesses that prefer a one-time investment.
• Subscription-based models ideal for environments with fluctuating workloads.
• Versatility for Diverse Budgets:
  The multiple licensing options mean that whether you’re a small business with limited IT resources or a large enterprise requiring extensive backup protection, there is a model that fits your financial and operational needs.

For organizations mindful of budget constraints, especially SMBs, this flexible approach not only helps control costs but also avoids the pitfalls commonly associated with backup software that is only available through expensive and rigid licensing agreements.
Key points:

• Flexible licensing models cater to both small businesses and large organizations.
• Transparent pricing, aided by an online cost calculator, simplifies the budgeting process.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Trade-offs​

Every backup solution has its strengths and trade-offs, and Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 is no exception. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Pros:
• Extensive platform support eliminates the need for dedicated hardware.
• Modular architecture simplifies management and troubleshooting.
• Comprehensive recovery features, from bare metal to granular restores.
• Integrated malware protection improves overall cybersecurity.
• Flexible licensing models and transparent pricing enhance its appeal for diverse organizations.
• Cons:
• Mac clients still lack native support, limiting its use in heterogeneous environments.
• MS365 backup configuration may require creative workarounds, particularly on non-standard operating systems like QuTS Hero.
• The manual creation of repository paths via SSH may present a learning curve for less experienced administrators.

These pros and cons help paint a clear picture, enabling IT decision-makers to balance their operational needs with the potential challenges of adopting a new backup solution.
Key points:

• The flexibility and feature set outweigh the minor caveats in most use cases.
• Informed tweaks and workarounds can mitigate most of the identified limitations.

Final Thoughts: A Versatile Solution for Modern Data Protection​

Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 clearly demonstrates that backup solutions don’t have to be restricted by traditional hardware or operating system boundaries. Its ability to run on myriad platforms—from dedicated Windows and Linux hosts to NAS appliances like Qnap—opens up a world of possibilities for businesses of all sizes. Coupled with robust recovery options, advanced malware protection, and comprehensive support for cloud-based applications such as MS365, this version packs a serious punch.
For businesses looking to modernize their data protection strategy without being bound by legacy constraints, Nakivo 10.9 presents itself as a strong contender. It is especially notable for SMBs that value both flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Sure, there may be some bumps along the road—like the workaround for MS365 SaaS repositories and the current lack of support for Mac clients—but these are minor issues when compared to the overall functionality and potential of the solution.
In an era where data protection is paramount and downtime can be devastating, having a backup solution that is both versatile and reliable may well be the ace up your sleeve. Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9, with its smart architecture and thoughtful integrations, is poised to deliver on that promise, ensuring that your data is as secure as it is accessible.
Key takeaways:

• Versatility and flexibility make Nakivo 10.9 suitable for diverse IT environments.
• Robust recovery features secure business continuity in the face of unforeseen events.
• Thoughtful integrations—including malware and cloud application protection—offer a modern solution to evolving cybersecurity challenges.
• While some complexity exists in setup and configuration, the benefits far outweigh the minor challenges.

For IT professionals evaluating modern backup solutions tailored to a dynamic environment, exploring Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 could very well be worth the close-up inspection.

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Source: TechRadar Hands on: I tried the Nakivo Backup & Replication 10.9 - see what I thought of this backup solution

 

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Veritas Backup Exec 22.2 is turning heads in the world of data protection for SMBs, and for good reason. In an era where every byte of data is gold, businesses need backup solutions that not only secure their digital assets but do so with speed, flexibility, and robust security measures. A recent hands-on review by TechRadar puts this backup solution under the microscope and sheds light on how it fuses enterprise-grade features with SMB-friendly simplicity.

A Legacy Refined: What Makes Backup Exec 22.2 Stand Out​

Veritas Backup Exec has long been a favorite for on-premises data protection, and version 22.2 continues this tradition while introducing a host of enhancements. Here’s what makes the latest iteration a compelling choice:

• A comprehensive suite of backup and recovery services designed to cover all data protection angles.
• A simple and transparent licensing model based on compute instances, making it easier for small and medium-sized businesses to forecast costs.
• An impressive array of support for both physical and virtual environments—a nod to the reality that today’s infrastructures are a blend of legacy systems and modern virtualized environments.
• Enhanced integration with cloud services, particularly Microsoft 365, expanding the backup scope to include SharePoint, Teams, Exchange Online, and OneDrive.

By merging enterprise-level features with an SMB-friendly subscription model, Backup Exec 22.2 offers an enticing balance of performance, security, and affordability.

Unpacking the New Features: What’s Hot in BE 22.2​

The upgrade to Backup Exec 22.2 brings significant enhancements that address current trends in data management, cybersecurity, and cloud integration. Some key features flagged by TechRadar include:

Expanded Microsoft 365 Backups​

Traditionally, businesses have relied on dedicated on-premises platforms for tasks like email and file sharing. The new BE version now effortlessly secures data not only from Exchange Online and OneDrive but also from SharePoint and Teams. This expanded coverage means that companies can consolidate their Microsoft 365 backups under one reliable umbrella, reducing the complexity of managing multiple backup solutions.

Cloud-Enhanced Security with Azure Object Lock​

As ransomware threats continue to evolve, immutable cloud storage is more critical than ever. Backup Exec 22.2 now supports Microsoft Azure Object Lock, a feature that turns cloud storage into a tamper-proof vault. By providing ransomware-protected immutable storage, businesses can rest easy knowing that their backup data remains untouched even if cybercriminals breach other parts of the network.

Accelerated Backups to ReFS Volumes​

Performance is paramount in any backup solution. BE 22.2 leverages accelerated backups to ReFS (Resilient File System) volumes, which is particularly beneficial for environments that require high-speed data transfers with minimal downtime. This acceleration means that even large backups can be completed more efficiently, an essential factor for businesses with limited maintenance windows.

Enhanced Data Integrity and Security Measures​

The upgrade doesn’t stop at speed. With anomaly detection in place, BE 22.2 actively protects backup scripts from tampering—a critical feature in today’s threat landscape where sophisticated attacks target backup infrastructures. Additionally, the solution now employs the FIPS-compliant deduplication engine from Veritas’ own enterprise NetBackup product, ensuring that data is both efficiently stored and rigorously secured.

Simplified Licensing and Compute Instance Model​

Perhaps one of the most refreshing changes is the simplified yearly subscription model. License costs are now based solely on compute instances, which can be a physical system, virtual machine, or a bundle of MS365 users. For example, the starter five-instance Simple Core Pack is priced at an agreeable £489 per year and even includes a bonus instance for additional Microsoft 365 users. This transparency in pricing makes it easier for SMBs to budget without compromising on functionality.

Deployment and Integration: Plug-and-Play for Your Environment​

One of the standout aspects of Backup Exec 22.2 is its deployment ease—a critical criterion for many SMBs operating on tight schedules and lean IT teams.

Quick Setup with Minimal Fuss​

• The review detailed the installation on a Dell PowerEdge R760xs running Windows Server 2022, which was up and running in just 20 minutes.
• Veritas streamlined the process by allowing for the rapid declaration of physical servers via their IP addresses, with remote agents being automatically deployed.
• For Hyper-V virtual environments, merely loading the agent on the host was enough to secure all virtual machines.
• Adding a VMware vSphere host was equally straightforward, requiring just the host’s IP address and credentials.

This level of simplicity means that even organizations with limited technical expertise can get their backup system operational without the usual headaches associated with more complex enterprise solutions.

Integration with Microsoft 365​

The modern workplace often relies heavily on cloud-based platforms, notably Microsoft 365. Backup Exec 22.2 recognizes this shift and integrates deeply:

• Users add their Microsoft 365 tenant through a guided process, involving a unique device code generated by BE.
• This integration covers all four major Microsoft 365 components, ensuring that no vital data is left unprotected.
• Practically, you can secure Exchange, OneDrive, SharePoint, and Teams data seamlessly, which is a boon for organizations that heavily lean on Microsoft’s ecosystem.

Crafting Backup Jobs: Intuitive Interfaces and Flexible Strategies​

Veritas understands that the backup process should be as painless as possible. The job creation feature in BE 22.2 is designed with the end-user in mind:

A Marketplace of Predefined Strategies​

• The backup wizard presents a list of predefined strategies, making it easy to set up a task without diving deep into technical configuration.
• Users can select various storage options, including disk, cloud, tape, deduplicating stores, or network shares.
• You have the flexibility to add layered stages such as local backup, offsite replication, migration to tape drives for an air gap, or even conversion to virtual machines. This modular approach ensures that your backup strategy can evolve as your business grows.

Emphasis on Encryption and Data Security During Backup​

• Even though Backup Exec offers extensive options, the job wizard consistently advises enabling encryption.
• You can choose between 128-bit and 256-bit AES encryption, ensuring liberal options for data protection.
• An important nuance is that if you only allow the original creator of an encryption key to recover data, unauthorized access is virtually eliminated.

Real-World Implications and Specific Use Cases​

Consider this scenario: A small business experiences a ransomware attack that encrypts most of its critical files. With BE 22.2’s immutable cloud storage and built-in anomaly detection, the organization can restore its data with minimal disruption, thereby containing the fallout from the attack. Such features position Backup Exec 22.2 not only as a backup solution but also as an integral part of a robust cybersecurity strategy.

Data Restoration: Fast, Reliable, and Flexible​

When disaster strikes, the speed and reliability of your recovery process can make all the difference. Backup Exec 22.2 excels in this regard, with several innovative recovery features:

Instant Granular Recovery Technology (GRT)​

• Instant GRT allows for the restoration of specific items such as SQL databases without needing to restore an entire set of data—a feature that can be a lifesaver in emergency situations.
• The recovery process is as simple as selecting a source, viewing its files and folders, picking a recovery point, and choosing a destination for the restored data.

Bare-Metal Recovery Capabilities​

• Creating a simplified recovery disk is straightforward. This feature facilitates bare-metal recovery, ensuring that even if a physical server suffers catastrophic failure, it can be restored quickly.
• The Instant VM Recovery feature is equally impressive—it can spin up a virtual machine from a backup set in seconds, minimizing downtime and maintaining business continuity.

Best Practices for MS365 Restorations​

• MS365 backups require a deduplicating store. TechRadar suggests best practice is to apply encryption at the store level rather than the job level to maintain data reduction efficiency. This subtle move can significantly optimize storage and recovery operations in the Microsoft 365 environment.

Performance and Security: A Dual-Edged Sword​

Veritas has put considerable effort into ensuring that Backup Exec 22.2 doesn’t just look good on paper but performs robustly in real-world applications:

Accelerated Backup Performance​

• Leveraging the power of modern file systems like ReFS, backups that once took hours can now be completed swiftly, making routine maintenance and periodic application of Microsoft security patches, for instance, far less disruptive.
• The acceleration features come into play during high-demand operations such as full backups or large enterprise-level datasets, keeping performance degradation to an absolute minimum.

Anomaly Detection to Thwart Tampering​

• With threats constantly evolving, Backup Exec employs anomaly detection on backup scripts. This protects the integrity of your backup routine, ensuring that even if malicious actors attempt to tamper with your backup process, your safeguards remain intact.

FIPS-Compliant Deduplication Engine​

• The introduction of the FIPS-compliant deduplication engine, borrowed from Veritas’ enterprise NetBackup, ensures that data is stored efficiently without compromising security compliance. This is particularly important in regulated industries where compliance with standards is non-negotiable.

Licensing, Pricing, and the Value Proposition​

For an SMB, cost is always a crucial factor. Veritas has addressed this by streamlining the licensing to a simple, yearly subscription model:

Transparent, Compute Instance-Based Pricing​

• The subscription model is based on compute instances, meaning you only pay for what you use.
• The starter package is priced competitively and comes with a bonus instance for additional Microsoft 365 users, enhancing value and making it easier for growing businesses to scale their backup needs.

Predictable Costs for Steady Budgeting​

• With an annual fee that covers multiple environments—physical, virtual, and cloud-based—the pricing model removes much of the complexity and unpredictability typical of enterprise backup solutions.
• This stability is a welcome relief for SMB owners who prefer steady, predictable IT expenses that don't break the bank.

Real-World Scenarios: Putting Backup Exec 22.2 to the Test​

In many ways, Backup Exec 22.2 is like the Swiss Army knife for data protection—it’s versatile, reliable, and packs a variety of functions into one tidy package. Imagine a scenario where a company’s vital data is under threat due to a sophisticated malware outbreak. With BE 22.2’s rapid deployment and intuitive recovery options, the IT team can quickly isolate affected systems, initiate restorations using Instant GRT, and bring critical applications back online before chaos truly sets in.
Similarly, in environments where data is frequently updated and storage requirements balloon rapidly, the accelerated backups to ReFS volumes and deduplication capabilities ensure that the backup process doesn’t become a bottleneck—even when scheduled during off-peak hours.
For IT teams managing a mix of physical servers, Hyper-V virtual machines, and VMware vSphere hosts, the streamlined integration means less time troubleshooting mixed environments and more time focusing on proactive measures. And in today’s hybrid cloud era, having a solution that seamlessly combines local, cloud, and tape storage isn’t just advantageous—it’s essential.

The Bigger Picture: Data Protection in the Modern IT Landscape​

Backup Exec 22.2 reflects broader trends in IT, where convergence between on-premises reliability and cloud agility is clear:

• With Microsoft 365 and other cloud platforms becoming central to daily operations, the need for integrated and secure backup solutions has never been greater.
• In a digital landscape fraught with evolving threats—from ransomware to sophisticated phishing attacks—security isn’t just about prevention but also about swift, reliable recovery.
• As businesses increasingly rely on hybrid infrastructures, solutions like Backup Exec 22.2 demonstrate that powerful, enterprise-grade backup functionality can be accessible even to modestly sized businesses.

By aligning itself with current cybersecurity advisories and incorporating features that support rapid recovery, Backup Exec 22.2 is not merely responding to today’s challenges—it’s anticipating tomorrow’s disruptions.

Key Takeaways​

• Veritas Backup Exec 22.2 delivers a suite of enhancements that make it an attractive choice for SMBs seeking robust data protection without the enterprise-level cost.
• The expansion of Microsoft 365 backup support, alongside features such as Azure Object Lock and accelerated ReFS backups, positions the solution as future-proof in a rapidly evolving digital ecosystem.
• Simplified deployment and intuitive backup job creation reduce setup headaches, allowing even less-experienced IT teams to leverage full-featured data protection.
• Comprehensive restoration options, including Instant GRT and bare-metal recovery, ensure that when disaster strikes, the recovery process is smooth and rapid.
• The straightforward compute instance-based licensing model ensures predictable costs—a key consideration for SMBs balancing performance with budget constraints.

In today’s competitive and threat-laden environment, a backup solution that combines speed, security, and simplicity is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Veritas Backup Exec 22.2 hits the mark by addressing both the technical and financial needs of SMBs, empowering them to overcome modern data protection challenges head-on. Whether you’re safeguarding critical business applications on Windows Server 2022 or ensuring seamless Microsoft 365 operations, BE 22.2 proves that powerful, reliable data protection is within every organization’s reach.
By embracing these innovative features and a user-centric design, Veritas has demonstrated that even in an era of constant change, some legacies can evolve to not only survive but thrive in today’s dynamic IT environment. For SMBs looking to secure their digital lifeblood, Backup Exec 22.2 might just be the tool that turns an everyday challenge into a competitive advantage.

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Source: TechRadar Hands on: I tried the Veritas Backup Exec 22.2 - see what this backup solution for SMBs is really like