Abstract: A method for backup and restore using inconsistent state indicators comprises identifying, from among a plurality of data objects to be backed up, one or more data objects that are in an inconsistent state, and storing inconsistent state indicators (such as modified object attributes) associated with the data objects. The method may further include generating a backup aggregate such as a snapshot of the plurality of data objects, where the backup aggregate includes backup versions of the inconsistent data objects. Prior to restoring one or more data objects from the backup aggregation, the method may include using the inconsistent state indicators to identify the backup versions that correspond to the inconsistent data objects, e.g., to exclude backup versions corresponding to inconsistent data objects from a list of full restoration candidates.

Abstract: A method for efficient backup and restore using metadata mapping comprises maintaining a first backup aggregation associated with a primary data object of a primary host at a secondary host, wherein the first backup aggregation includes a first backup version of the primary data object stored within a secondary data object at the secondary host. The method further comprises generating a second backup aggregation, wherein the second backup aggregation includes a second backup version of the primary data object and a backup metadata object corresponding to the secondary data object. The backup metadata object includes a pointer to the second backup version. The method may further comprise restoring the secondary data object, wherein said restoring comprises using the pointer to access the second backup version of the primary data object to restore at least a portion of the secondary data object.