Data creation can be a tedious exercise requiring precision considering the value of the information contained. Ideal data storage should be easily accessible and can get retrieved at wish without much hassle. Data backup is essential as it will allow you to recover data in case of a disaster leading to data loss.

For a very long time, data backup was mainly done locally on CDs and hard drives. Advancements in technology in a bid to improve life has enabled a modification in the way data is stored thus availing online data backup. Data backup ensures security and no critical information get lost.

Local backup

Local backup refers to a method of storage and retrieval of data that uses local storage devices. Some of the instruments used in local backup include; hard drives, flash disks, and compact discs. Local data backup has been used for long and remains a useful backup means. Many organizations survived disastrous events potentially leading to closures by using domestic reserves. Software and tools to help in the organization of local backup have been developed making local backup even more convenient. The safety and reliability of reserve solely depend on your effort, and modifications are made to enhance efficiency.

Cloud backup

Cloud computer backup utilizes the internet to manage information and data over a remote based cloud server. With cloud backup, one should create, edit, store and restore data for as long as they desire. Cloud is a new concept that seeks to advance storage and general security of data. Progress in information technology is visible in enhancing safety and livelihood.

The history of remote data backup trace back to the mid-20th century in the rise and use of cloud computing. Online backup also referred to as backup-as-service is packaged together with a disaster recovery plan by most of the cloud service providers.

Techolution’s Enterprise cloud services provide an enormous volume of space to allow storage of data. Some of the backup services are free while others are paid depending on the size. Cloud backup is becoming a common phenomenon with the increase in the use of cloud data storage. More than 40% of internet users are engaging cloud storage reflecting the integral role of cloud backup.

Cloud backup vs. local backup

Both cloud and local backup serve the same function of data management which is vital to every organization. The difference between the two is seen in the modalities of functioning. While local backup is mostly done onsite, cloud backup is offsite and minimal control of stored data is witnessed. Having a local data backup has been in existence for a long time and is popular among many organizations. Cloud backup typically requires internet connection where files get shared and stored in the clouds whereas, for local backup local storage tools and devices are necessary.

Both cloud backup and local backup are useful, and the choice will depend on individual circumstances. Regardless of the size of your business, developing a backup system is essential, and the only contention comes in choosing between the two primary forms of backups. A candid look of the pros and cons of cloud backup vs. local backup is crucial in making a choice on which type is suitable for you.

Benefits of cloud backup vs. local backup

Advantages of cloud backup

Online backup aims to protect information from various risks both internal and external. Some of the benefits associated with cloud backup include;

  • Ability to scale-up on need. The cloud is unlimited regarding the capacity of data you can store and restore. Highly flexible cloud data will enable backing up of volumes of data depending on needs and requirements by your company.
  • Enables quick disaster recovery; cloud storage is an offsite method that stores data away from the reach of natural calamities that may destroy your data. As such, online backup assures data safety and allows for quick recovery of businesses in case of attack.
  • Easy accessibility of information is guaranteed; when using cloud backup, you are assured of quick availability of data whenever you need it since information is all available online. Data is made possible by a click only. You can log in to your laptop or mobile phone from any location and access your data without much hassle.
  • The economical nature of cloud storage has led to its rapid rise in popularity. Some service providers’ offers limited space at no cost.

Local backup advantages

  • Local backup provides optimal control of the information. When using an onsite backup, you can make adjustments whenever you feel like doing so. Besides, offline backup protects your data from third-party access.
  • The faster speed of storage and retrieve of data is seen when using local disks. The fact that local backup doesn’t need an internet connection to upload makes them speedy to use.
  • Your data is free from malware attacks in the hard drive. Local backups are very secure since all management is done within the company.

Disadvantages of cloud backup vs. local backup

Cloud backup

  • Remote backup immensely relies on internet connection thus it is greatly latent. The speed of connection is dependent on the bandwidth and ISP.
  • Security enhancements on cloud backup are imminent. However, susceptibility to threats and attacks from malicious persons still occur. Ensuring safety on the cloud can be difficult especially when a third party service provider is involved.
  • The credibility of highly sensitive data may be compromised when you involve an extra person in the form of a service provider. Control over the data falls on the hands of the firms backing up your data hence accountability issues are likely to arise.

Cons of local backup

  • Sometimes, one may view the monthly subscription that one pays to a contracted cloud firm as being expensive, yet in the long run, this is just a fraction of the cost you use in purchasing storage device for local backups. Local backups are generally costly to acquire and maintain.
  • The storage space in offline backup is usually limited to physical availability.  By no chance can one upgrade local storage in the event of expansion.
  • Portability and accessibility of data in local storage are impaired due to the immobile nature of physical storage.