Introduction

Ensuring data protection on IBM i is critical for business continuity. Whether facing hardware failures, accidental deletions, or cyber threats, having a robust backup and recovery strategy can save time and prevent data loss. This guide covers essential backup strategies, recovery techniques, and high availability (HA) options to help users safeguard their IBM i environment.

1. Understanding Backup and Recovery on IBM i

IBM i offers multiple methods to back up and restore data. Key components include:

2. Backup Strategies and Best Practices

A well-structured backup plan ensures minimal downtime and data loss. Here are some best practices:

a) Implement a Multi-Tier Backup Strategy

• Daily incremental backups for recent changes.
• Weekly full library backups for critical application data.
• Monthly full system backups for complete recovery options.

b) Automate Backups

Use IBM i's Job Scheduler (WRKJOBSCDE) to automate recurring backup tasks, ensuring consistency and reducing manual effort.

c) Test Backups Regularly

Perform periodic restoration tests to verify backup integrity and ensure a smooth recovery process.

d) Use Backup, Recovery & Media Services (BRMS)

BRMS simplifies backup management by automating media tracking, scheduling, and recovery operations.

3. Storage Options for Backups

• Tape Drives - Traditional but reliable method for offline storage.
• Virtual Tape Libraries (VTL) - Disk-based backup with faster recovery times.
• Cloud Backup Solutions - Offsite backup storage for disaster recovery.
• External NAS (Network-Attached Storage) and SAN (Storage Area Network) - High-speed local storage options.

4. Recovery Methods and Disaster Recovery Planning

a) Restoring Data from Backups

To restore the system, follow these steps:

1. Restore the Licensed Internal Code (LIC) using a D-mode IPL from a physical media or virtual tape.
2. Restore the Operating System and Configuration using the GO RESTORE menu after booting into dedicated system mode.
3. Restore system libraries and objects using RSTLIB.
4. Restore user data and objects, including specific libraries using RSTLIB and individual objects using RSTOBJ.
5. Restore the IFS (Integrated File System) using RST.
6. Restore user profiles using RSTUSRPRF and restore configuration objects (network settings, job descriptions, etc.) using RSTCFG.

b) Disaster Recovery Strategies

A solid disaster recovery plan ensures business continuity. Key considerations include:

• Defining Recovery Time Objectives (RTO) - The maximum acceptable downtime.
• Defining Recovery Point Objectives (RPO) - The maximum data loss tolerance.
• Storing backups offsite for protection against local disasters.

5. High Availability (HA) and Disaster Recovery (DR) Solutions

Beyond backups, high availability (HA) solutions provide real-time data replication to minimize downtime and data loss. Here’s how HA and DR can enhance recovery strategies:

a) Real-Time Data Replication

• Keeps a secondary system continuously updated with live data.
• Ensures minimal downtime in case of hardware or software failure.

b) Role Swaps for Seamless Failover

• Production workloads can switch to the replicated environment during planned maintenance or outages.
• Users experience little to no disruption during a failover.

c) Journal-Based Replication

• Uses journal entries to track real-time changes.
• Ensures that the backup system remains up to date with minimal latency.

d) Automated Recovery and Monitoring

• Some solutions enable automatic failover, detecting failures and switching systems seamlessly.
• Performance monitoring tools help detect and resolve issues early.

e) Complementing Backups with HA/DR

• Even with real-time replication, backups remain essential.
• Backups protect against data corruption, ransomware, and accidental deletions, while HA/DR ensures minimal downtime.

6. Common IBM i Backup and Recovery Commands

7. Security Considerations for Backup Data

• Encrypt Backups to prevent unauthorized access.
• Restrict Access to backup media and prevent unauthorized modifications.
• Protect Against Ransomware by implementing immutable backups.

8. Conclusion

A strong backup and recovery strategy is vital for ensuring IBM i system reliability. Regular backups, automated job scheduling, high availability replication, and proper disaster recovery planning can prevent data loss and minimize downtime. By combining backup strategies with HA/DR solutions, businesses can ensure seamless operations and quick recovery in case of failures.