3 common types of backups

What is a backup?

When talking about types of backups, we must not forget to define what backup is. Backup is the copying of physical or virtual files of a database to a secondary location so that in case of any unfortunate situation, there is already a copy available. Backing up is necessary when dealing with copies of computer files to avoid a complete loss. Even when handling websites, it is necessary to back up copies of your website at least somewhere on your computer so that in case your site is hacked or probably pulled down, you have a copy available and can upload it again.

What are the different types of backups?

There are three main types of backups; full backup, incremental, and differential backup. There have been other types of back up listed as well like synthetic full backup, forever incremental backup, etc,

Full back up

A full backup is the type of backup that backs up everything at once. This type of backup is usually done when a user has decided to back up their information for the first time. This type of backup always backs up all the files and folders in the system and it usually takes its time It is easy to restore data because all the files you need are backed up in the same dataset.

Incremental backup

Incremental backup usually happens after a full backup is done. It backs up only the new information created on a new day or time depending on how you have set the backup in your account. If you have done a full backup on Monday and then on Tuesday there is new information in your account, the system will backup only the new information and not the old one. If on Wednesday, there is new information in your account, the system will back up only information for Wednesday and not for Tuesday. That is what an incremental backup is, it backs up data that has only changed since the last backup

Check the link below for IOsafe’s explanation for full and incremental backup

What are the 3 types of backup?

Differential backup

This type of backup copies all the files that have changed since the last full backup. That means if a full backup is done on Monday and Tuesday there is a new file, a differential backup will backup files created on Monday and Tuesday. If another file has been created on Wednesday, a differential backup will backup files created on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday all at once

Watch a full video on types of backup

The video I created on YouTube will show the different forms of backup and you will be able to get a clear version of what exactly I am talking about

Why are the three types of backups important?

Backup protects a complete loss of information against power failure. If you happen to be in a situation where you have run out of power supply, then a backup will be able to bail you out because you already have a secondary source of your information
They protect us against virus attacks. If a virus attacks your device, you won’t have to worry because you have probably stored your files in a cloud source or backed them up in another device
Prevents loss of evidence. You have all come across scenarios where a video showing the evidence of the accused is missing because it has been deleted or the device has been stolen. A backup helps you store the evidence if such a scenario happens

Other advantages of the different types of backups

A backup is what you should seriously consider for your device today to avoid information loss completely. In which places can you back up your information?