Copying data from computers, servers, or applications to storage run by a cloud provider so it can be restored if the original is lost.
Cloud backup services automatically copy files, databases, or entire systems to remote data centers on a schedule. Because the copies are stored off-site, they protect against local problems such as theft, fire, hardware failure, and many ransomware attacks.
A widely used guideline is the 3-2-1 rule: keep three copies of important data, on two different types of storage, with one copy off-site. For a small business, that might mean files on office computers, a local backup drive, and a cloud backup. Software-as-a-service tools such as email and document platforms may also need separate backups, since providers' built-in retention is often limited. The most important step is testing restores regularly, because a backup that cannot be restored offers no protection.
The plans, tools, and processes an organization uses to restore its IT systems and data after a major outage, attack, or disaster.
Managed IT ServicesOutsourcing day-to-day IT management, such as support, security, backups, and updates, to an external provider for a regular fee.
Object StorageA cloud storage method that keeps data as individual objects with metadata in a flat structure, suited to large amounts of unstructured files.
RansomwareMalware that encrypts or steals a victim's files and demands payment, usually in cryptocurrency, to restore access or prevent leaks.
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