Linux backup/restore strategies

[Milen Dimitrov]

Hi,

Could you please share your ideas about existing Linux backup/restore 
strategies?
I'd like to be able to easy restore linux fax and email server, 
minimizing the downtime.
-What is the best way to create hard drive partitions in order to ensure 
easy and fast restore?
- Recommended backup software solutions
- Full backup against config files backup only

Thank you in advance for sharing your experience!