Benefits of Remote Backups

Remote backup has advantages over traditional backup methods:

  • The most important aspect of backing up is that backups are stored in a different location from the original data. Traditional backup requires manually taking the backup media offsite.
  • Remote backup does not require user intervention. The user does not have to change tapes, label CDs or perform other manual steps.
  • Unlimited data retention.
  • Backups are automatic.
  • The correct files are backed up. Ordinary backup software is often installed with a list of files to be backed up. This set of files usually represents the state of the system when the software was installed, and often misses critical files, like files that get added later.
  • Some remote backup services will work continuously, backing up files as they are changed.
  • Most remote backup services will maintain a list of versions of your files.
  • Most remote backup services will use a 128 – 448 bit encryption to send data over unsecured links (ie internet)
  • A few remote backup services can reduce backup by only transmitting changed binary data bits