backing up data files to a DVD-RW drive

Earl Parker II · 08-10-2004, 01:05 AM

Does anyone have any recommendations on the best command-line method to backup file to a DVD-RW device? I'm not worried about compression (at least not yet) and would like to have the option of restoring just one or all the files. I've read about several methods but would like to hear from those who have real world experience. Thanks!

rovitotv · 08-10-2004, 06:13 AM

I just use tar and bzip compression. tar cvfj name_of_backup.tar.bz2 /files_to_backup then I used cdrecord-prodvd to burn the files to DVD. Nice and simple. I have a huge amount of disk space 120 GB and I only use about 40 GB at any given time, so sometimes I will back stuff up to my external USB drive. I hope this helps.

jenso · 08-10-2004, 06:40 AM

growisofs -M -J /dev/dvd -R /some/files
"man growisofs"
"man mkisofs"
"man cdrecord"

Earl Parker II · 08-10-2004, 11:10 AM

I do appreciate the replies. When I get a little time this evening I'll read more about each option and do some experimenting. Thanks again!

Earl Parker II · 08-11-2004, 11:29 PM

One more question I forgot to ask. Once I use mkisofs and cdrecord to backup my data to a DVD, exactly how do I restore said data?

gbonvehi · 08-11-2004, 11:33 PM

That depends on the files. But there's no magic, just copying them should do the trick.

Earl Parker II · 08-12-2004, 07:42 AM

Just what I needed to know- thanks!