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Understanding Backup Strategies

Full Backup

Complete copy of all data every time a backup runs. Simplest strategy but requires the most storage space.

  • Fastest restore time
  • Simplest to manage
  • Each backup is independent
  • Best for small datasets

Full + Incremental

Periodic full backup followed by incremental backups of only changed data. Most storage-efficient approach.

  • Minimal storage required
  • Fastest backup speed
  • Efficient network usage
  • Best for large datasets

Full + Differential

Periodic full backup followed by differential backups of all changes since the last full. Balance between full and incremental.

  • Faster restore than incremental
  • Only need full + last differential
  • Simpler restore process
  • Good balance for most scenarios

GFS Retention

Grandfather-Father-Son keeps weekly, monthly, and yearly copies for long-term retention and compliance.

  • Long-term data retention
  • Compliance requirements
  • Historical point-in-time recovery
  • Disaster recovery protection

Compression

Reduces backup size by compressing data before storage. Effectiveness varies by data type.

  • Reduces storage costs
  • Faster network transfers
  • 40-60% typical reduction
  • Works best on text/databases

Deduplication

Eliminates duplicate data blocks across backups. Most effective with similar backup sets over time.

  • Major storage savings
  • 20-80% typical reduction
  • Cumulative benefits over time
  • Best for virtual environments