Protecting file systems made up of many small files (from thousands to millions) severely taxes server resources when using file-by-file backup methods, impacting application performance and the ability to complete backup operations within a limited "window." SnapImage reduces the strain on server performance through block-level image backup. Initiated by NetWorker, SnapImage takes a filesystem snapshot, builds a block list, and then backs up the data through the server as virtually one large file. This requires significantly less processing overhead, resulting in higher tape speeds, less application impact and faster backups!

With SnapImage, data is backed up live (applications remain online with no user lockout!) and with optimum efficiency. During full backups, only populated blocks are copied to tape, not the entire image. Termed "sparse," SnapImage skips over null, unused blocks. By reducing backup volume sizes, backups are complete faster and with less tape consumption. As an example and assuming identical tape drive speeds, a 60% populated file system can be backed up in approximately 40% less time with SnapImage when compared to other image backup products.

During incrementals, only changed blocks are backed up, not the entire file(s). Lengthy delays traversing a file system to identify changes are also avoided. SnapImage continuously records all subsequent block changes for quick, instant reference upon backup.

By further enabling backup operations to be completed faster, enterprises have greater flexibility in fulfilling data protection requirements and service level demands. In the event of disaster, a full image, directory, or individual file can be readily restored.