Restore of OpenSuse 10.2 image fails

Hi,

We are evaluating True Image in various scenarios. One restore we cannot get to work is when trying to restore an image of an OpenSuse 10.2 system taken with True Image Server Echo for Linux 8.115. The backup was taken to external USB HDD. When we boot to the True Image Rescue CD, the backup image validates ok. When we then restore the image, the restore appears to work OK, no errors are reported. However, when the server boots, it errors and states "Error Loading Operating System".

Any ideas, suggestions gratefully received!

Gavin

 

Gavin:

I can't speak for True Image Server Echo for Linux, but on the Home versions of TI there is an interesting anomaly when restoring ext2 or ext3 partitions. TI Home will zero part of the first sector in the partition, which will zap some of GRUB's code if you have GRUB installed to the Linux partition.

You can fix by reinstalling GRUB from a Linux boot CD.

 

Thanks for that. I googled similar issues with OpenSuse and they pointed to a GRUB issue. I reinstalled GRUB and that seems to have resolved my issue, which is great

Interesting that Acronis don't recognise this issue anywhere! It's a shame, we are evaluating Acronis, it's a good product, but time and time again I see how shockingly bad the support can be. This is seriously concerning me.

Gavin

 

Gavin:

What's interesting is the official explanation for zeroing part of the first sector of an ext2 or ext3 partition, which I've never understood. I believe it has something to do with the requirements of the LILO boot loader, which is nowhere near as common as GRUB anymore, so it would be better if Acronis changed this behavior.

If you frequently restore your OpenSuse partition then you can avoid the issue by creating a separate boot partition to which you install GRUB, or else you can install GRUB to the MBR of the disk.

Acronis support seems to be overwhelmed lately so it may take them a couple of weeks to respond to a forum post. The best way to get support from them is to go to their web site and file a support request. Alternatively, you can get pretty good support here from Acronis users on the forum.

 

Hello gav28,

Thank you for your interest in Acronis Linux Server Disk Backup Software.

We are sorry for delayed response.

Please be aware that when restoring a system partition, sometimes the boot manager needs to be reactivated. Please see chapter 6.3.11 "Restoration summary and executing restoration" of Acronis True Image Echo Server for Linux User's Guide for some more details.

Thank you.
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Marat Setdikov