An Overview on Backup Software

backup software is used to create a second version of a file or database in case the original is destroyed, corrupted, lost or otherwise unable to be be used. This type of software therefore has the ability to rescue the system in case of a data loss.

It can also split up or even compress the files so that they can be stored on various types of portable storage media such as CD or nowadays perhaps even a memory stick.

The backup can also be stored at a different location to the original, meaning that a system can be remotely repaired should something happen to it. High speed broadband internet access has made this even more possible and even more widely practised.

Most backup software is capable of encryption which renders the data useless to anyone other than its intended recipients. This can also reduce the size of the file and thus the speed of transfer but also improves security, especially if the data is going to be carried around in a portable format.

Files are often backed up by this type of software on an incremental basis. i.e. The software will create a backup file at time intervals specified by the user.

This type of software is often incorporated into others and many now have an auto save or backup feature which works without the user knowing and is able to recover lost work if necessary.