Peer DRS v1.2 Centralizes MS SQL and MS Exchange Replication

Peer DRS extends capabilities for centralized, remote database backups; adds MS Exchange replication

• By James E. Powell
• 11/01/2007

Peer Software, Inc. announced Peer DRS 1.2, centralizing management of Microsoft SQL database and Microsoft Exchange backups and replication from a single location and GUI. The update supports Microsoft SQL and most versions of Microsoft Exchange, including MS Exchange Server 2000 SP2 or greater, all versions of MS Exchange Server 2003, and all versions of MS Exchange Server 2007.

Peer DRS can be handle a variety of backup scenario thanks to its simplified intuitive configuration wizard and management GUI. Peer DRS need not be run on the same server as the primary database or target Exchange servers. The product automates the database replication and incremental changes on a primary server, which are then restored onto one or more target standby servers. Transaction logs are continuously and automatically backed up (at the user-specified interval), then restored to a standby server so it keeps the two Databases synchronized. If the production server fail, users can point to the new server and perform a database "role reversal."

Peer DRS 1.2 is more flexible; it now allows backup job configuration on a per-storage-group basis with different configurations and schedules. Alerts can be e-mailed to administrators when primary database connections fail or when a backup or restore has not occurred within a user-specified period. Administrators can view replication activity from a single control panle.

"Peer DRS was developed to allow customers to manage the backup of SQL and Exchange from one application code set and GUI. Now, administrators can replicate an organization's SQL databases and MS Exchange data, wherever they may reside," said Paul Marsala, president of Peer Software, in a statement. "In sum, Peer DRS consolidates two otherwise disparate and cumbersome chores-securing SQL and Exchange data-within a single framework that can be managed from any location. As with all Peer solutions, once its configured, Peer DRS requires nominal, hassle-free administration."

Key features include:

&&Incremental backups or continuous capture can be scheduled (whenever Exchange log files are closed) of Exchange data, metadata, and context, including all e-mail, folders, deletions, calendars, contacts, notes, and tasks

• Protection against data loss and allows local recovery of Exchange information stores and mailboxes

• Disaster recovery of Exchange data to a standby Exchange Server

• On-demand recovery can be performed from the latest snapshot of the primary storage group to the target Exchange server

• Consistent backups are ensured thanks to checksums for all database pages taken during backup; alerts are sent if errors occur

A free 15 day evaluation copy is available for downloading at http://peersoftware.com/products/peer_drs/ms_exchange/overview.aspx.