Problem description
After performing a Linux File Server backup, you may notice that the snapshot size on storage is significantly larger (sometimes over 10×) than the actual size of the data on the Linux File Server.
Cause
This issue occurs when default folder and file exclusions are removed from the content rule configuration.
On Linux systems, directories such as /proc, /sys, and /selinux are dynamic or in-memory file systems. Including them in the backup can create recursive or infinite loops, causing the backup size to grow abnormally.
Resolution
To correct this issue:
Re-add the default folder and file exclusions to the Content Rule.
Run a new backup after making these changes.
Default Exclusions
.snapshot
/dev
/etc/Phoenix
/etc/Druva
/proc
/selinux
/sys
/tmp
/var/Phoenix
/var/log/Druva
Note: Default exclusion paths can vary depending on the Phoenix Agent version. Refer to the appropriate list below before updating your configuration.
Phoenix Agent 6.3.x
/var/Phoenix
/etc/Phoenix
Phoenix Agent 7.0.x
/etc/Druva
/var/log/Druva
Post-Fix Cleanup
After adding the correct exclusions and running a successful backup, you should remove previous snapshots (restore points) that were created when the exclusions were missing, as they will continue to occupy unnecessary space on storage.
Steps to Delete VMware Virtual Machine Snapshots
Log in to the Druva Management Console.
Navigate to Products & Services > Phoenix > VMware.
Select your organization (if organizations are enabled).
From the vCenter/ESXi host page, select the appropriate vCenter or ESXi host from the list or the left navigation pane.
Click Configured VMs.
Select the virtual machine associated with the snapshots.
Go to the Backups tab.
Select the snapshot (restore point) you want to delete.
Click the Delete button at the top-right corner of the console.
Additional Information
For detailed instructions on deleting VMware virtual machine recovery points, refer to: