Related versions: v18 and newer Backing up your BIM Server is essential to avoid data loss and minimize the time needed in case of a disaster recovery. Your backup can also be used for moving the Teamwork Projects and Libraries or even the entire installed application onto a different machine.
Teamwork Environment Components
The below diagram explains the different components of an example BIM Server Environment focusing on the data that can be used for the recovery.
Choose backup levels
There are three backup levels to choose from according to which portions of your BIM Server do you want to save off. It is strongly recommended to backup both:
- Projects individually (1st level) in case only a Project file would get damaged, or if you would like to go back to an earlier version of the Project
- the BIM Server application (2nd level) or the entire OS of the machine (3rd level) in case the installed application itself gets corrupt
1st level – Project and Library backups/snapshots
Backing up:
- Server data of Projects (BIMProject)
- PLN backups on the Server
- Each user’s Local Cache (PLA)
Useful:
- when project is damaged (most of the cases)
- optimised for minimal data loss
| Pros: |
Cons: |
| Consistent (hourly bkp) |
Recovery time |
| Automated |
Restore one by one |
| Accessible |
Version dependent |
2nd level – Full BIM Server Data backup
Backing up:
- BIM Server Module data
- BIM Server Manager data
Useful:
- when server gets damaged (rarely)
- restore BIM Server on the same or on a different machine
- Frequency: daily (overnight – outside of work hours)
| Pros: |
Cons: |
| Full BIM Server recovery |
Synced databases required |
| Scripted |
Services have to be stopped (outside of work hours) |
| Can be scheduled |
‘Same’ BIM Server required |
3rd level - Operating System snapshot
Backing up:
- Snapshot of the Virtual Machine
Useful:
- when OS or computer hardware is damaged (little chance)
- quick recovery
| Pros: |
Cons: |
| Full recovery (OS + BS/BC) |
Synced databases required |
| Can be scheduled |
Services have to be stopped |
| Replica server |
Management of VMs |
Download Backup Guides
Noemi Balogh
