Multiple copy capability for network backup systems

摘要

A method and apparatus for providing a multiple copy file backup system is disclosed in which files that have been previously backed up by a first user are to be backed up by different users. The first instance of backing up a file results in storing the file in a first location and associating the file and user in an entry in 238808-1a file data table. For other users needing to backup the same file, the contents of the file are copied from the first location into a second location within the file backup storage system. The file backup system creates two new entries in the file data table. In one entry the file stored in the second location is associated with a User-Pool that allows sharing the file contents among the users. The second and subsequent entries in the file data table will be created as subsequent users desiring desire to backup the file. These entries will indicate that the file is provided by the User-Pool and the necessary data will be copied from the User-Pool entry to properly associate the user with the file contents.