Cool 'quick backup' script for Virtual Server

Jeff Trumbull has just posted a very cool 'quick virtual machine backup' script for Virtual Server at: https://cwashington.netreach.net/depo/view.asp?Index=1049&ScriptType=vbscript

The big trick involved in this script is that he uses vshadow.exe from the VSS SDK to make shadow copies of the virtual machine files - with a process that goes something like:

1. Save state running virtual machines
2. Create shadow copies of all virtual machine files
3. Restore virtual machines
4. Backup shadow copies at your leisure

Given that step 2 is pretty much instantaneous this means that you are able to backup your virtual machines for the cost of a save state and immediate restore.

Cheers,
Ben

Comments

• Anonymous
  July 13, 2005
  Can't get any output, is there anyone that can help? scott.tarr-whelan@mcdata.com
  Thanks
  
  I see it stopping and starting the shadow copy?
• Anonymous
  July 13, 2005
  Can't get any output, is there anyone that can help? scott.tarr-whelan@mcdata.com
  Thanks
  
  The only change is where I put the backupfile?
  
• Anonymous
  July 13, 2005
  Scott -
  
  Have you tried emailing Jeff?
  
  Cheers,
  Ben
• Anonymous
  July 27, 2005
  Ben,
  
  Do you also know a way of programmatically identifying a virtual pc from within a virtual pc?
  
  Thanx,
  Jack