Creating a Zip Archive of Geocortex Essentials Sites Folder

Introduction

This guide outlines the process of creating a zip archive of your Geocortex Essentials sites folder. This operation is crucial for backup, migration, and troubleshooting purposes. It's designed for system administrators and technical users familiar with Windows Server environments and Geocortex Essentials.

What's in the Sites Folder?

The Sites folder serves as the central repository for your Geocortex Essentials configuration and is where the Geocortex Essentials REST elements are served from. It encompasses:

• Custom workflows and automations
• Configured reports and templates
• Site-specific resources (symbology, localization files, etc.)

Why Create a Zip Archive?

• Disaster Recovery: Ensures you can restore your sites if needed
• Migration: Facilitates transferring your configuration to a new server
• Troubleshooting: Allows for detailed analysis of your setup

Security Considerations

The Sites folder contains sensitive information. Be aware of the following:

• Configuration files may include API keys and connection strings
• User authentication details and RBAC settings are stored here
• Custom security implementations and workflow definitions may contain sensitive logic

To protect this data:

• Use secure transfer protocols (SFTP, HTTPS) when moving the archive. OneDrive's File Request feature is an example of this
• Implement strict access controls
• Encrypt the zip archive, especially when transferring externally

Prerequisites

• Remote Desktop access to your Windows Server hosting Geocortex Essentials
• Knowledge of your Geocortex Essentials installation directory paths
• Sufficient permissions to access the installation directory

Locating the Geocortex Essentials Sites Folder

The default installation path for a Geocortex Essentials sites folder is:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Latitude Geographics\Geocortex Essentials\Default\Sites

This assumes Geocortex Essentials is installed on the C: drive with a single unnamed instance.

For more details, consult our documentation:

• Geocortex Essentials documentation on File and Folder Locations
• Geocortex Essentials Installation

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparation:

   • Ensure sufficient disk space for the archive
   • Schedule the backup during off-peak hours
   • Verify necessary permissions

2. Access the server: Connect via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

3. Locate the Sites folder: Navigate to your Geocortex Essentials installation directory

4. Create the zip archive:

   • Right-click the Sites folder
   • Select "Send to" > "Compressed (zipped) folder"

5. Rename the archive: Use a descriptive name, e.g.,

   GE_Sites_Backup_YYYY-MM-DD.zip
   

6. Secure the backup:

   • Move to a secure, encrypted location
   • Use secure protocols for transfer
   • Implement access controls

7. Verify the backup:

   • Check file size and creation date
   • Consider testing in a separate environment

8. Document the process: Record details in your system documentation

Troubleshooting

If you encounter "Access Denied" errors, verify your permissions or consult your system administrator.

Best Practices

• Perform backups regularly as part of your maintenance routine
• Store backups in multiple secure locations
• Test your backup and restoration process periodically
• Keep your Geocortex Essentials version updated for the latest security features