Deep Freeze — Retaining User Data

Keeping desktop computers running is no easy task. From users making accidental or malicious system changes to system threats such as viruses and malware, there are a large number of exploits that can leave workstations in a non-functional state. Many system administrators are applying reboot-to-restore technology to maintain their workstations, but are finding that the ability to save user and program data is sometimes required.

There are several ways in which user and program data can be retained:

Alternate Data Storage Options—these methods allow for the user to store data in locations other than the Frozen partition. However, the user is required to manually save or relocate data to the alternate location.

• USB Flash Drives—Storing data on USB Flash drives is the most simple way to retain information across Frozen computer restarts without any administrative configuration.
• Unprotected Partition—By creating a second, unprotected partition, users can easily save their work to the hard drive while the system partition remains Frozen.
• Network Drives—Storing data on network drives is an easy way to retain information across Frozen computer restarts, however it does require network connectivity at all times.
• ThawSpace—A ThawSpace is a virtual partition that resides on the system partition. Data stored in the ThawSpace remains across restarts, even though the hard drive only has one true partition.

Redirection of Data—these methods allow data to be automatically redirected to an alternate storage location and are mostly transparent to the user.

• Mapping—Redirect folder requests to another volume via mapping.
• Junctioning—Redirect file or folder read and write requests via symbolic links.

Both of these data redirection methods can be easily implemented using Faronics Data Igloo. A simple point and click interface allows users to select the source data, select the target ThawSpace, and move the data. Any future changes or new data will automatically be redirected and saved on the designated Thawed partition.

Detailed instructions on how to implement the methods listed above are available in the Deep Freeze - Retaining User Data White Paper. Faronics’ Technical Support department also provides complimentary support for any of the methods listed above to customers with valid maintenance packages.

Frozen and Thawed partitions can easily exist on the same hard drive