This topic explains how to restore files by using a NetBackup server other than the one that was used to write the backup. This type of restore operation is called an alternate server restore or server independent restore. It allows easier access to data for restores in master and media server clusters and provides better failover and disaster recovery capabilities.

The architecture of NetBackup allows storage devices to be located on multiple servers (either separate storage devices or a shared robot). The NetBackup image catalog on the master server contains an entry that defines the server (master or media server) to which each backup was written. Information specific to the backup media is contained within the master server image catalog (in the attribute file for each backup). The information is also contained in the Enterprise Media Manager (EMM) database, generally located on the master server.

To restore data through a device on another server is more involved than other restores. Use the methods that are described in this topic to restore the backups. Although the methods do not require you to expire and import backup images, in some instances it is useful.

The information in this topic is also pertinent in the case of restoring from a backup copy. If you created multiple copies of a backup, it is possible to restore from a specific backup copy other than the primary copy. To do so, use the bprestore command.

More information is available in NetBackup Commands.

See Supported configurations for alternate server restores.