Backup Blog Bites #4: How To Validate The Configuration Of Your Immutable Backups

The integration between backup software and a disk array is crucial for implementing immutable backups. To achieve backup immutability, the backup software needs to leverage the features of the disk array, such as write-once, read-many (WORM) capabilities or snapshots with retention policies.  

There is a wide range of configuration details and technicalities that would adversely impact the backup or its immutability. The disk array must also support Write-Once, Read-Many (WORM) capabilities.  

In addition, the backup software and the disk array must be compatible and support the necessary features for achieving immutability. Not all backup solutions or disk arrays provide the required functionalities, so compatibility checks are essential. Some pairings may require you to write custom scripts. 

Retention values must also be well-coordinated between the backup policy and disk array retention lock settings, otherwise the backup system will attempt to delete the backup before its immutability period is over. This would lead to major confusion when it comes to backup management and reporting. 

Get in touch to run a configuration audit of your storage & backups, and guarantee configuration compliance