Linux Proxy for SMB File Share

[LickABrick]

Is it correct you cannot use a Linux Proxy for a SMB File Share backup?

I've searched the docs but cannot find a definitive answer to this question.
In the Requirements and Limitations this is not clearly stated:
https://helpcenter.veeam.com/docs/backu ... y-on-linux

In the System Requirements (https://helpcenter.veeam.com/docs/backu ... ckup-proxy) it says:

Backup proxies running Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2 or later support the VSS for SMB File Shares feature. To use it, make sure that all requirements listed in this Veeam KB article are met.
For object storage backup, also 64-bit versions of the following Linux distributions are supported: ...

It does not clearly state SMB File Shares are not supported, just that VSS for SMB File Share is supported on 2012 R2 or higher.

And over here (https://helpcenter.veeam.com/docs/backu ... ml?ver=120) I don't see it stated either.


Can someone clarify this for me?

P.s. English is not my native language so I might have read over or misunderstood something.

[david.domask]

Hi LickABrick!

At this time, Linux proxies will be used only for VM backups and for Object Storage backups:

https://helpcenter.veeam.com/docs/backu ... ckup-proxy
https://helpcenter.veeam.com/docs/backu ... file_proxy

For object storage backup, also 64-bit versions of the following Linux distributions are supported:

This line means that Linux proxies can be used for backing up from Object Storage; is there any way to add the SMB share you're needing to protect as a FileServer and protect it that way?

As a workaround, I've loosely tested mounting an SMB share to some path on a debian server and the backup worked just fine as did restores. Not sure if it's a suitable long-term solution, but for smaller SMB shares (a few TB in size) I think it should be doable.

[LickABrick]

Thanks for the clarification David, it is just a small file share with only a small amount of changing data so I will try your suggestion of mouning the SMB share on the Debian server.

Do you know if SMB shares from Linux Proxies will be supported anytime soon?

[david.domask]

Glad to advise and help LB, I think given it's not so big, this should be stable enough.

We are reviewing to bring Linux proxies for NAS Backups as well, but no timeline or target release vehicle at this time.