Adam,

There really isn't both a simple and inexpensive solution to this issue. Here are some thoughts:

1. Assuming you are using MySQL it needs to be backed up more often. Perhaps hourly. If you are on a shared server it is unlikely that iPowerWeb would allow it or if they do they will want to add some amount of cost to your plan.
2. Again assuming you are using MySQL and InnoDB format you can, using CRON script, flush the logs more often.

These two things together are the essence of the database. Additional scripting would allow you to email/ftp both the dump file and the incremental logs to another account. Assuming that account is on another system you could then process the files into a clean database. This process would be a poor man's mirror. If the hard disk where the dumps/logs are kept did not crash then the worst case is you have everything except the currently open log. How much info this is depends on how often you flush the logs.

See: http://mysql.com/doc/refman/4.1/...kup- policy.html

The other option is to ask if iPowerWeb has the ability to mirror across to a different system, hopefully, on a different power grid. Of course this option would, if offered, cost more $$$.

I am pretty sure that iPowerWeb's suggestion/recommendation will be for you to purchase a dedicated server, if you have not already done so.

Hope this helps!
Dale Bremer | Homepage | 08.01.06 - 2:13 pm | #