Hi If it's a Hyper-VM I would export the VM to have a offline copy. In 2012 R2 you can do it while it's powered. If it's the host itself I would use a cloning utility to clone the server. On big operation when I doubt it can be successful I often do a cloning in such way in a maintenance windows. You can use some tool that boot on a media to do it offline and you set a target of like a USB3/ssd USB storage to store the clone.
How to backup a failing DC VM prior to repairs, 2012r2
I have a 2012R2 host running a 2012r2 DC. I am using Arcserve SPX for backups. My backups won’t boot. Arcserve support has discovered errors with the DC as noted: Arcserve Case Notes: [Findings]
- Disk\volume corruption found from the Windows system and application logs. A few entries are shown below. Source disk\volume corruption could cause the boot failure from the backup data as well.
- The \Device\Harddisk0\DR0 disk is the C: volume disk.
Log Name: System
Source: disk
Date: 12/24/2023 8:01:25 PM
Event ID: 32
Task Category: None
Level: Warning
Keywords: Classic
User: N/A
Computer: CWD-DC01.mydomain.com
Description:
The driver detected that the device \Device\Harddisk0\DR0 has its write cache enabled. Data corruption may occur.
Log Name: System
Source: volsnap
Date: 10/10/2023 7:06:19 PM
Event ID: 8
Task Category: None
Level: Error
Keywords: Classic
User: N/A
Computer: CWD-DC01.mydomain.com
Description:
The flush and hold writes operation on volume C: timed out while waiting for a release writes command.
Arcserve has asked me to run chkdsk /f /r. This is my PDC on and file server. I want to create a functional backup prior to the repair (Stuff happens). What is the best way to achieve this please. Export, Replicate or other 3<sup>rd</sup> party backup solution or some other path to a safe landing. I am worried this thing might never boot again and I must be prepared.
TIA
Chris
1 additional answer
Sort by: Most helpful
-
Thameur-BOURBITA 32,831 Reputation points
2024-01-17T16:50:04.0633333+00:00 Hi @Chris Head
It seems that write cache is enabled and it should be disabled for the Arcserve SPX backup.
I invite you to read this Microsift arictle talking about how to disable write cache required by some third-party program:
How to manually turn disk write caching on or off
If you still have the same error you should contact Arcserve SPXsupport:
https://www.arcserve.com/support
Please don't forget to accept helpful answer