Data Container guide

A Data container is an image file that backups can be stored in. It is selected during the creation of a backup job as a Destination media option, and can be given a set size or allowed to use all available space on the backup destination.

Creating a Data container backup job

Data containers are only available for System Protection backups to the following destinations: RDX drives, network locations, local hard drives and external disks. A Data container is mounted automatically by BackupAssist and appears as a local disk.

Data container size

You can modify a Data container's size setting if the container does not exist. For example, if the backup job has not been run or if the container has been manually deleted.

Restores from a Data container

The restore process does not change for backups stored in Data containers. Each backup will provide a restore point as defined by the backup schedule used. System Protection backups that use Data containers will appear in the Integrated Restore Console, and BackupAssist will automatically mount the Data container when the backup is selected.

Recovery from a Data container

System Protection image backups are used in recoveries. If your System Protection backup is in a Data container, RecoverAssist can mount the Data container as part of the recovery process.

Manually mounting a Data container

BackupAssist automatically mounts Data containers when backups and restores are performed. However, there may be times when you want to do this manually. For example, if you want to check what is inside a Data container or have it available for a task.

To set up a backup job using a Data container, see Legacy System Protection