What is Backup?
Backup refers to a copy of data, applications, or systems that is made and stored in a separate, secure location. The purpose of a backup is to ensure the availability and integrity of information by allowing for recovery in the event of data loss, corruption, or a system failure.
Types & Examples
- Full Backup: A complete copy of all selected data. While this is the most straightforward method, it requires significant storage space and time.
- Incremental Backup: A backup of only the data that has changed since the last backup of any type. This is faster and uses less space than a full backup but can be more complex to restore.
- Differential Backup: A backup of all data that has changed since the last full backup. It’s a middle-ground approach that is quicker to restore than incremental backups.
ISO 27001 Context
The ISO 27001 standard requires organisations to establish a robust backup policy and implement technical controls (ISO 27001 Annex A 8.13 Information Backup) to protect against data loss. Backups are a core component of business continuity and disaster recovery planning, ensuring that critical information can be restored quickly and efficiently after a disruptive event.