Can HCI Backup file copy to external drive?

We have HCI that run backup task. The backup file  store in HCI and  NAS storage. is possible to copy the backup file to external drive? if can, hope can share the guide. seem we cannot find it, we only find copy backup file between HCI and NAS storage.

p/s: the external drive now connected on 1 of the node and mount to the vm.

Seem the easiest way is to dismount the external harddisk from vm, then add back the external harddisk as backup repository on the node
Then edit the backup policy so the  the backup file copy to external harddisk as archive.

Thank All

hi, you can atttach the external drive to your nas and perfrom an automated sync between this external drive and the backup share (on qnap you can use built in sync tool).

Hi
Yes, it's generally possible to copy backup files from HCI to an external drive, especially since the drive is connected to one of the nodes and mounted to a VM. Here’s a general approach you could follow, depending on the OS and file management capabilities within your HCI and VM environments:

Steps to Copy Backup Files to External Drive
1.Identify Backup File Location:
Ensure you know the exact path where the backup files are stored on the HCI or NAS. If they're stored on a network location, make sure the VM with the mounted external drive has network access to this location.

2.Mount External Drive on the VM (if not already done):
Since you've mentioned the external drive is already mounted to the VM, double-check that it is mounted and accessible by navigating to its mount point on the VM.

3.Copy Backup Files to External Drive:

-Linux VM: Use rsync or cp commands to copy files. For example:

cp /path/to/backup/files/* /path/to/external/drive/
Or, if you want progress feedback:
rsync -avh /path/to/backup/files/ /path/to/external/drive/

-Windows VM: Use a standard file copy operation in File Explorer or use PowerShell:
powershell

Copy-Item -Path "C:\path\to\backup\files\*" -Destination "E:\path\to\external\drive\" -Recurse
Automate the Task (Optional):
If this will be a recurring need, consider creating a script on the VM to periodically copy the backup files to the external drive.

Troubleshooting Tips
Permissions: Ensure the VM has read permissions on the backup file location and write permissions on the external drive.
Network Configuration (for NAS): If accessing backups on NAS, make sure the network share is properly mounted on the VM.
Space Check: Confirm that the external drive has sufficient space for the backups.
This process should work as long as the VM has access to both the source (HCI/NAS) and destination (external drive). If you encounter any specific issues, feel free to ask for further assistance.