Retrospect on Red Hat Linux
This page details how to install and configure the Retrospect backup client for Red Hat Linux for use with the Department Backup Service, as well as provide important usage advice and assistance with basic troubleshooting.
Installation
Installation of the client requires first downloading the client installer.
Unpackage and run the installer. Type in the initial backup password that Computing Support will give you upon request. Reboot your workstation when asked to.
This password is what we use to connect the backup server to your computer and securely exchange data. Do not use any other password than what we provide. Do not install a Retrospect client on any machine on which backups will not be done. For security, this password will be changed upon the first connection attempt by the backup server.
Configuration
No configuration is required; the default settings are fine. However, you should email us as soon as you have installed the client. This lets us know to add your workstation to the backup server.
Usage advice and troubleshooting
What you need to know to initiate file recovery
If your computer fails, or you have deleted a file from your workstation, disconnect your workstation from the campus network immediately and contact Computing Support at 215-573-2818, or 215-219-5544 (in an emergency).
It is very important that you disconnect your workstation from the network as quickly as possible after the deletion event.
Incremental backups are done daily: deleted files are removed from the incremental backup, so if a subsequent backup is completed, there is nothing we can do to recover your lost file.
Error messages
Some errors are normal, as a few files backed up during the procedure can change during the verification step. If you notice an abnormal number of errors (e.g. a number larger than 10 or so) then feel free to email us so that we can check the backup logs.
Ensuring smooth backups
Your computer must be turned on and awake to allow backups to be performed. Computers that are switched off or asleep will not exchange data with the backup server.
The Linux Ecology How-To document explains how to manage power settings for your Red Hat Linux workstation. While your display can shut off after a period of time, you want to make sure your workstation is awake and that the hard drive does not spin down.
Firewall issues
Your computer must allow Retrospect network traffic to at least the backup server archive.bio.upenn.edu. If you run a software or hardware firewall as a security measure, this firewall must be configured to allow this traffic through. Otherwise backups will fail.
Use the Linux Firewall and Proxy Server How-To document as a reference guide. You will need to add a rule to open up traffic on both TCP and UDP port 497, which allows Retrospect traffic into your workstation.
