3.3

5 Backing Up the iNEWS System
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Likewise, when you make major changes to a site file, update the software backup to include
these changes. For instance, if you add a new wireserver to your system, you define that
workstation in the configuration file. This represents an important change to this site file so,
after modifying this file, update your software backup tape.
Backing up System Site Files
Your system uses site files in combination with software taken from your release CD and
update tapes. Back up your site files on a separate tape. If anything happens to your system,
you can use your release CD and site file backup to rebuild your system software.
Make a new site file backup after making significant changes to any site file. For instance,
adding a wireserver to your system requires that you modify your configuration file
(/site/config). After making this change, make a new site file backup.
To make a separate sitedump tape for each server, repeat this procedure on each server. After
backing up a server’s site files, ensure you label the tape to clearly indicate which server’s
site files are on it.
The sitedump Command
The sitedump command backs up files in the /site directory and certain key files in the /etc
directory. This is where all of your site-specific configuration files are kept. The tape should
be updated whenever you make changes to your configuration.
To back up your system’s site files to tape:
1. Insert the tape into the master computer (typically server A).
2. Select the master computer.
3. Enter superuser mode.
4. Type:
sitedump
Linux systems can make sitedumps to their hard drives.
sitedump -f /backups/<date>.sitedump
5. When the sitedump is done and the prompt returns, exit from superuser mode by
pressing Ctrl+D.
6. Remove the tape and label it. Include the date and type of backup.