Windows Server 2012 Essentials quick questions

[Kalint]

We are a 6 employee office running Server 2012 Essentials and I just have a couple questions:

1. Currently we are using windows backup to backup our server but our 3rd party IT firm wants us to get Symantec Backup Exec instead (which is like a grand). Is there any reason the backup that comes with windows isnt as good?

2. The Best Practices Analysis says theres roughly 40 BPA issues with the server, but we didn't touch any of those settings it was automatic since we have the HURR DURR Essentials editions. Should we try to fix those problems or are they not problems at all?

[sc302 Veteran]

Backup Exec is very standardized and produces better logging than windows backup. Basically, the report and logging features in backup exec are far superior than that of windows.

Best practices are recommended, but they are not necessary. That is up to you to decide whether or not you want to address those issues. They are just brought to your attention.

[philcruicks]

As always with backups it depends on how critical your data is vs cost....windows backup is free (part or the OS) backup exec will do a better job but costs a lot....

IMO if your just an office of 6 with 1 server I'd just stick with windows...I doubt you can justify the cost of backup exec.

[xendrome]

Look at EaseUS Todo Backup Server, http://www.todo-backup.com/business/server-backup.htm

Little bit better pricing, just not sure if it does "Essentials" version of Server 2012..

[Kalint]

Look at EaseUS Todo Backup Server, http://www.todo-back...rver-backup.htm

Little bit better pricing, just not sure if it does "Essentials" version of Server 2012..

Essentials is for businesses who have no clue how to setup Active Directory, Remote Desktop, etc. It sets it up for you out of the box. I'll check it out that program

[Japlabot]

I use backup built into Essentials/Server 2008-2012 in general. It is fine. Does the job. Have restored on Bare Metal with no problems (not glitches at all), it was just a waiting game while it restored from External HDD, then found that everything was working perfectly. Restored individual files from prior date, very easy to do. I use the console to check that the backups have been running.

I don't see the point on spending an extra grand on backup alone if it is not necessary. Sure if that's what's required I would do it, nothing is more important than your data, but if the same job can be done for less with no practical benefit over the Symantec one (for a small environment where advanced logging and reporting is not required) then really I am going to go with the cheaper option because it fits the needs better.

[alphamale]

having a backup is critical. keeping your workstations up is critical. having a backup that when the chips are down will get you back up and running is something worth paying for. i hate hand wringing. when i told my small business something most of the time they did not want to listen because of the painful bill. course if things went south they did not want to hear i told you so.

i used backup assist for those that balked and yes i tested it several times and its cheaper than what they want to use and the software keeps you informed with great logging. i even used it to backup a server to a remote location.

great advice from them with some wiggle room in the choice of software. this software uses the windows platform but makes it very useable and adds much better control.