HP Data Protector Software Performance White Paper

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Figure 2. Data Protector architecture
Cell Manager
The Cell Manager is the main system that controls the Data Protector cell from a central point,
where the Data Protector core software with the Internal Database (IDB) is installed. The Cell
Manager runs Session Managers that control backup and restore sessions and write session
information to the IDB. The IDB keeps track of the backed-up files as well as of the configuration
of the Data Protector cell.
Installation Server
The Installation Server (IS) is the computer where the software repository of Data Protector is
stored. At least one Installation Server for UNIX and one for the Windows environment are
required to enable remote installations through the network and to distribute software
components to client systems in the cell.
Client Systems
After installing Data Protector’s Cell Manager and Installation Server, components can be
installed on every system in the cell. These systems become Data Protector clients. The role of
a client depends on the Data Protector software installed on the system.
Systems to be backed up
Client systems (application servers) to be backed up must have the Data Protector Disk Agent
(DA) installed. The Disk Agent reads data from and writes data to disks on the system, and
exchanges data with a Media Agent (MA).
The Disk Agent is installed on the Cell Manager as well, allowing the administrator to back up
data on the Cell Manager, the Data Protector configuration, and the IDB.
Systems with backup devices
Client systems with connected backup devices must have a Data Protector Media Agent
installed. A Media Agent reads data from and writes data to media in the device, and exchanges