Definition of Cloud Backup
Cloud backup (sometimes referred to as online backup or remote backup) is a way of sending a copy of a physical or virtual file or database to a secondary, off-site location for preservation. These secondary servers and data storage systems are usually hosted by a third-party service provider.
Local vs Cloud
Local backup is the traditional form of backup. The process for local backup entails storing a copy of data on-site. In this approach, backup software is used to manage and copy the data to hardware such as tapes, disks or network-attached storage devices. Traditional backup was considered better for critical data that requires a short recovery time objective because there are physical limits as to how much data can be moved in a given amount of time over a network. When a large amount of data needs to be recovered, it may need to be shipped on tape or some other portable storage media.
Cloud backup doesn’t need any additional hardware and provides a secure, off-site option. More benefits of cloud backup are described in further detail later in this guide.
Cloud Backup Workflow
Here is an example of a cloud backup workflow. It shows that users from anywhere can securely backup their content automatically into the cloud, while still being able to have access to master files when needed.
Benefits of Cloud Backup
Why is data backup so important? 93% of organisations that lose data because of a disaster, file for bankruptcy within one year. To move away from the possibility of a catastrophic data loss, consider backing up your company’s vital information to the cloud. Here are a few benefits of cloud backup:
Minimise risk: Move away from single points of failure by securely syncing on-premise systems to a secure, off-site cloud infrastructure. By backing up data in multiple centres rather than one location, is the best protection from outside threats or natural disasters. Backing up your files to the cloud is also better than manually copying files onto another drive, thus improving compliance safeguards.
Cost-effective: Cloud backup takes advantage of existing infrastructure, so you do not have to worry about purchasing any new equipment. Once it is set up, there is little to no effort to maintain. No more manual tape-based backups. Cloud backup solutions offload these functions, freeing up your staff. Each cloud backup plan is unique to each customer, allowing for scalability and transparency.
Secure, fast data: Automatically synchronise your assets to the cloud from your local hardware. All digital files are securely backed up in the cloud, encrypted and nothing is lost whilst working. Instead of waiting hours, cloud-based recovery enables you to restore data in minutes, so you can get what you need when you need it – no matter the time or location.
