Applies to: Exchange Server 2007 SP3, Exchange Server 2007 SP2, Exchange Server 2007 SP1, Exchange Server 2007
Topic Last Modified: 2006-08-31

A recovery storage group (RSG) is a special storage group that allows you to mount mailbox databases and extract data from those databases. RSGs enable you to recover data from a backup or copy of a database without disturbing user access to current data.

What's New in Exchange 2007

RSGs have been improved in Microsoft Exchange Server 2007, most notably, in the following areas:

  • RSGs are created and managed by using the Exchange Management Shell, or by using the Exchange Server Disaster Recovery Analyzer Tool (ExDRA). Management of an RSG cannot be performed using the Exchange Management Console.

  • RSGs are not visible in the Exchange Management Console, even after they have been created and populated with a database.

  • ExDRA will prescriptively recommend and then assist in performing recoveries involving a recovery storage group.

For More Information

The following topics cover the recovery storage group in greater detail:

  • Understanding Recovery Storage Groups   This topic provides the following information:

    • When you should and should not use an RSG.

    • How data is extracted from an RSG and merged into an active database.

    • What permissions are needed to work with an RSG.

    • What data is salvageable from an RSG.

    • What the limitations of an RSG are.

    • An outline of when you should and should not user an RSG.

  • How to Recover a Mailbox by Using a Recovery Storage Group   This procedure describes how to restore data using an RSG.