This may be a stupid question....and on April Fools no less, but here goes.

Should someone hack into the server and destroy it, and a complete reformat is needed, is there anyway to instantly restore everything on the machine without having to redownload all Server 2003 updates, re-install Plesk, and re-install the data? Or would I be stuck with 2 hours or so worth of work? :)

Plus....

Thunderstorm protection. Right now, we only have a UPS Backup and that's hooked up to the computer and monitor. But we have nothing protecting our DSL line/modem. Are there any sure fire ways to protect the comp against a lightning strike so we can keep it up and running during storms?

thanks

You may want to look into using something like Norton Ghost to make an image of your server installation. When the 'you know what' hits the fan, ghost the machine and restore your client data from traditional backups.

As for T-storms, I'd say the safest thing you could do is invest in a surge protector with protection for the phone lines (assuming this would work with DSL... talk to your provider about that).

I should also point out, as I'm sure many else will, that running a hosting business over DSL is not a good idea.

There is software out there that will let you create an image of a fresh installation of software. You can even get it so that when you image the hd that its like you bought another computer (ex: you have to finish installing and configuring windows) and the software you want installed will auto install. Similar to what comp makers use.

As far as a power backup, you will want to contact your provider as most surge protectors / ups solutions run havoc on dsl phone lines. You may want to look at a solution similar to what some data centers use with large battery banks (but on a smaller scale) or generators as most home batter backup solutions are just enough to save work and shut the unit down.

Now if the phone line goes out.....unless you have another provider / conntection your pretty much SOL

I should also point out, as I'm sure many else will, that running a hosting business over DSL is not a good idea.
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Yeah, I know. Wich is why we arn't taking any more orders untill FIOS for Buisness arrives in June. 15/2 will sure beat the 876/178 we have now. That'll sure speed things up :).

Thanks for the suggestions :).

Originally posted by Neil V
I should also point out, as I'm sure many else will, that running a hosting business over DSL is not a good idea.
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Yeah, I know. Wich is why we arn't taking any more orders untill FIOS for Buisness arrives in June. 15/2 will sure beat the 876/178 we have now. That'll sure speed things up :).

Thanks for the suggestions :).

Running a hosting business over FIOS is still not as good of an idea as DSL.

You should be storing your servers in an actual datacenter, with multiple backends. I'd suggest you colocate your servers.