Remote backup service
Remote backup service or online backup service offers a distance (remote) online solution to back up and store sensitive and valuable files.
Conventional backup procedures usually involve backing up data to tape. However, remote backup transmits the data over the Internet and stores it on servers in remote datacenters. The data can then be accessed online through either a web browser or desktop-based applications.
Contents |
Common features
Some common remote backup services include these features:
- Multiple websites backup. Designed for bigger companies to back up their online data within headquarters, branches, and far-end offices, all achieved in a faultless integration and performed in real time. Some providers use applications like Microsoft SQL Server backup, which ensure multiple and point-on-time security to vital databases.
- Multi platforms. Designed to provide solid backup for multiple platforms like Windows, Apple, Linux, Unix, and Solaris.
- Continuous backup. Also designed for big companies with deep pockets, it offers continuous backup solutions.
- Binary compression. Typically designed to transfer or convey clients' binary data with changes from one day to the next – though this is only possible with more advanced applications and tools.
- Online access. Designed to allow clients access to secured data and files from any location. This option is limited as the functionality just described is not provided by most applications.
The above list is not exhaustive as clients can further ask for and get customized service.
Advantages of remote backup service
- It is independent – no intervention is required because clients don’t need to change label disks or CDs, change tapes, or use any conventional backup systems.
- All data are securely kept and maintained outside clients' websites. This is extremely crucial as backups stored outside can easily be accessed in critical situations or losses. Some service providers also provide encryption and SSL options to securely guard the data on their servers.
- Backup devices and applications make ongoing, non-stop file backup possible as changes occur in them.
- The majority of remote backup services have installed applications that produce versions of clients’ files.
Disadvantages of remote backup service
- During a data recovery process, data restoration can be really slow if the client is on a dial-up Internet connection.
- There is a high risk when an existing backup service provider is liquidated or sold, thereby making it difficult for clients to access backup files. Clients sometimes end up paying more for the same services.
See also
Web Hosting Wiki article text shared under a Creative Commons License.
