Symantec's latest version of Backup Exec–System Recovery 8.5 introduces features that make the product more suitable for the disaster recovery and business continuity (BD/DR) implementations. For solution providers, the new version may prove to be a big hit by opening new opportunities in security and business continuity.

Available in Server, Desktop and Small Business Server Editions, Backup Exec System Recovery has added improved support for dissimilar hardware restoration (with Symantec’s Restore Anywhere technology), virtual drive conversion technology, enhanced offsite backup capabilities and granular recovery of Exchange and SQL server files.

For solution providers supporting customers running Microsoft’s Small Business Server, the SBS edition of Backup Exec System Recovery 8.5 will be of the most interest. The SBS edition also gives a good indication of all the features available under the Backup Exec product line, although for a smaller environment. It also brings support to the various editions of Windows Server 2008 and its accompanying products.