The importance of making backups: local, in the cloud or both?

Welcome to MemoriaFlashOnline! In this article we are going to talk about the importance of making backup copies of our most valuable files, both locally and in the cloud. External Hard Drives are a very useful tool to save our backup copies and always have them on hand in case of emergency. But which option is better: Local and cloud backup? Keep reading to find out.

Local backups

Definition and types of backups

Local backups refer to creating and storing copies of data on physical devices, such as external hard drives, USB drives, or magnetic tapes. These devices are physically stored in the same place where the original data is located.

There are several types of local backups, each with its own characteristics. External hard drives are one of the most popular methods, as they offer considerable storage capacity and are relatively easy to use. USB drives are also a common option, especially for small amounts of data. Magnetic tapes , although less used today, are still an option for large volumes of data.

Local backups offer some important advantages. First, they provide quick and direct access to data if necessary. Additionally, you do not rely on an Internet connection to access backups . However, they also have their disadvantages, such as the possibility of loss or physical damage to storage devices, as well as the need to properly preserve them and update backups on a regular basis.

Recommendations and best practices

Performing local backups effectively requires following some recommendations and best practices. First of all, it is important to make regular and constant backups . This ensures that the most recent information is always backed up and reduces the risk of data loss.

Another important aspect is choosing reliable and quality software to make backup copies. There are many options available in the market, such as Acronis True Image, EaseUS Todo Backup, and Macrium Reflect , among others. Researching and selecting the right software for specific needs is critical to ensuring secure data backup.

Additionally, it is advisable to keep storage devices in a safe and suitable place , such as a safe or a place free of humidity and extreme heat. Additionally, it is important to periodically test your backups to ensure that data has been properly backed up and can be restored if necessary.

Cloud backups

Definition and characteristics of cloud backups

Cloud backups refer to creating and storing copies of data on remote servers accessed over the Internet. Cloud backups have become very popular in recent years due to their accessibility, scalability, and data security.

One of the most notable features of cloud backups is remote access to backed up data . This means backups can be accessed at any time and from anywhere with an Internet connection, providing greater flexibility and convenience.

Additionally, cloud backups offer the ability to easily scale storage as needed. Many cloud backup service providers offer flexible storage plans that allow you to expand or reduce storage capacity based on changing needs.

Another important advantage of cloud backups is data security . Cloud backup service providers typically implement important security measures, such as data encryption, cyber attack protection, and data redundancy, to ensure maximum protection of stored information.

Cloud backup services and providers

There are many cloud backup services and providers available in the market. Some of the most popular include Google Drive, Dropbox, Amazon S3, and Microsoft OneDrive , among others.

These services differ in terms of storage capacity, prices, additional features and level of security. It is important to research and compare different options before choosing a provider to ensure they meet your specific requirements.

Recommendations and best practices

Backing up to the cloud effectively and safely requires following some recommendations and best practices. First of all, it is important to choose a reliable provider and ensure that it meets appropriate security standards. Investigating the provider's history, reading user reviews, and reviewing security and privacy policies are key aspects in this choice.

Additionally, it is essential to use strong, unique passwords to access your cloud account and enable two-factor authentication when available. These measures help protect data and prevent unauthorized access.

Data encryption is also an important consideration when using cloud backup services. Ensuring data is encrypted both in transit and at rest ensures an additional level of information security and protection.

Local and cloud backup: which one to choose?

Analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of each option

Both local backups and cloud backups have advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when choosing the appropriate method. Some aspects to consider include cost, data access, security, reliability, and scalability.

Local backups offer fast and direct access to data , as well as a lower initial cost in terms of hardware investment. However, they may be subject to risks of loss or physical damage to storage devices, and require additional effort to keep backup copies up-to-date and in sync with the original data.

On the other hand, cloud backups offer remote access to data , providing greater flexibility and convenience. Furthermore, data security is in the hands of cloud service providers, who implement strong security measures to protect stored information. However, the long-term cost may be higher, especially for large volumes of data, and a good Internet connection is required to access the backed up data.

The importance of combining both methods

Although local backups and cloud backups have their own advantages and disadvantages, it is important to note that combining both methods offers greater security and data protection .

Using both methods provides an additional copy of data in case of failure or loss in one of the methods. Additionally, data availability is increased by having remote access to cloud backups in case you cannot access local backups due to circumstances beyond your control.

It is advisable to use local backups as a first line of defense, regularly and constantly backing up important data. Then complement this with cloud backups for additional protection and greater data availability.

Conclusions

Making backup copies of our data is essential to protect valuable information and avoid irrecoverable loss. Both local backups and cloud backups have advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on individual needs. However, the combination of both methods offers greater security and data protection.

It is important to make regular and consistent backups , using reliable software and storing devices safely. Additionally, it is essential to choose reliable providers and ensure adequate data protection if you opt for cloud backups.

In short, there is no single answer to which is the best option . Each case is unique and individual needs must be considered when choosing the appropriate backup method. However, the conclusion is clear: making backups is essential to protect our data!

Additional Resources

– Acronis True Image

– EaseUS Todo Backup

– Macrium Reflect