What is a backup? Simply explained

Knowing what a backup is and how it relates to a cloud is vital in our high-tech era. Learn more here.

Backup – what is it? Simply explained

Backup is a term used to describe a backup copy that copies data back in the event of a system failure or data loss, or through which it can be restored. The copy can be made on an external hard drive, the computer’s hard drive or even on a USB stick. Data can also be backed up online:

• Many computers, smartphones and tablets automatically create backups, i.e. backup copies of the files. The data and settings are usually synchronised in an online storage. Online storage is also called cloud storage. Cloud storage is available from various providers.
• Software services such as the cloud are not the only suitable medium for a backup. For example, you can make a backup on a USB stick or an external hard drive. For backups from mobile devices, you can of course also use your computer’s internal hard drive.
• If your smartphone ever breaks or gets lost, a backup means that data such as contacts, pictures and videos are still available. The same applies to your PC if you have backups made in online storage.
• You can restore all data such as photos and documents from a backup later. This is practical, for example, if your smartphone is broken and you need to have it repaired. The device is usually completely reset and all data deleted. If you then restore the backup, the files are available again.

Different backup methods and backup solutions

A reliable backup system is essential to prevent data loss and ensure recovery of important information. There are various backup methods and solutions that can be used depending on requirements and individual needs.

• Full backup: Full backup is a method in which all data on a system is backed up. This includes all files and settings, whether or not they have been changed since the last backup. A full backup has the advantage that all information can be restored in the event of data loss. However, this method can be time-consuming and require a lot of storage space, especially for large amounts of data.
• Incremental backup: With incremental backup, only the data that has changed since the last backup is backed up. This means that only new or changed files are included in the backup. This saves storage space and shortens the time needed to create the backup. However, in the event of a restore, both the last full backup and any incremental backups created since then must be restored.
• Differential Backup: Differential backup is similar to incremental backup, but backs up all files that have changed since the last full backup. Compared to the incremental backup, only the last full backup and the differential backup need to be restored during a restore. This can speed up the restore process as fewer backups need to be restored.