The process of automatically creating and storing copies of digital data on a remote server at regular intervals is a critical function of certain applications. This function ensures that even in the event of a local data loss due to hardware failure, software corruption, or accidental deletion, a recent version of the data remains accessible for restoration. For instance, a system might be configured to copy all new or modified files to a remote server every hour, every day, or even more frequently depending on the criticality of the data and the available bandwidth.
Regular, automated copying offers several key benefits. It minimizes data loss in unforeseen circumstances, reduces the recovery time objective (RTO), and helps maintain business continuity. The existence of offsite data backups also strengthens the overall security posture by providing a safeguard against ransomware attacks and other malicious activities. Historically, businesses relied on manual tape backups, which were prone to human error and logistical challenges. Automation and remote storage have significantly enhanced the reliability and efficiency of the data preservation process.
