Online Backup Technology
A Backup Article Contributed by Ashley Lister
Online Backup Technology
Those familiar with online backup will probably be unaware of the vast amount of technological resources they are using.
Online Backup Software.
Most users simply see a user-friendly interface and many do not see that. The most successful online backup providers install software that is scheduled to run at appropriate times and, after that, needs little or no intervention from the actual user.
But the wealth of technology that is used for online backup is tremendous.
Those familiar with Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks Networks (WANs) might not be so familiar with Storage Area Networks (SANs). Storage Area Networks are the technology involved in connecting servers, Mass Storage Systems or Disk Arrays, for the purpose of keeping backup information safe and secure. The majority of Storage Area Networks connect several hubs, gateways and routers in a bid to keep communication speeds high between reliable storage drives.
Online Backup Providers Take Great Advantage of These Technologies.
Fibre Channel interfaces are favored over the traditional technologies of SCSI or IDE. IDE was initially designed to be a simple and direct method of transferring data safely to a storage device. SCSI technology improved on the ground that had been broken by IDE to provide easier connections and a more robust platform from which to work. Fibre Channel has taken network connections to the next level offering easier connection and greater communication speeds.
This is an Ideal Tool for Those Involved in Online Backup.
Whereas the IDE connections of a LAN (usually 100BaseT Ethernet) can offer communication speeds of around five megabytes per second, Fibre Channel Storage Area Networks can exchange information at a rate of around 200 megabytes per second. This phenomenal increase in speed is particularly useful for online backup because it means information can be transported and safely stored with minimal disruption. For those who rely on online backup for safe storage of their vital information this vast increase in speed can provide a valuable lifeline.
Other technologies include the ever-evolving "checking routines" which no longer apply only to software. Because the data that is being backed up might need to be used for restoration it is imperative that its integrity is guaranteed before it is considered a complete backup. The majority of online backup providers do not simply produce software that constantly checks and re-checks the integrity and validity of copied data.
Traditional backup methods such as tape drives, floppy discs or optical discs are all capable of this simple task and always have been. The modern online backup provider now uses software that will also check the integrity of the software as well as the hardware that is being used.
This addition to the repertoire of checking facilities offers several advantages, including a diagnostic on machines that could ultimately prevent many dreaded computer disasters from ever occurring.
There is a great deal of fascinating technology involved in the maintenance of a good online backup server. And, the better it is, the less the average user needs to know about it.
