What are Air Gap Backups?

In our always-on digital world, it's more important than ever to ensure our data is safe. Among the many ways to protect your data, one of the most important is through air gap backups. Air gap backups are a type of backup that occurs when your computer is not connected to the Internet. This type of backup can be useful in case of a ransomware attack or other online security breach. If you're interested in learning more about air gap backups, keep reading! We'll explain what they are and how to create them.

What are Air Gap Backups?

Air gap backups are a type of backup that occurs when your computer is not connected to the Internet. This type of backup can be useful in case of a ransomware attack or other online security breach. With an air gap backup, your data is stored on a physically separate device, such as an external hard drive, USB flash drive, or SD card. This separation ensures that your backup is safe from any malware or malicious software that may be present on your computer.

What are The Different Types of Air Gap Backups and How They Work?

There are four main types of air gap backups:

1. Local Backups:

A local backup is a type of air gap backup that is stored on a physically separate device that is located near your computer. Local backups are typically stored on an external hard drive or USB flash drive. To create a local backup, you will need to connect your external storage device to your computer and use backup software to copy your files to the device.

2. Cloud Backups:

A cloud backup is a type of air gap backup that is stored on a remote server. Cloud backups are typically stored on off-site servers that are owned and operated by a third-party provider. To create a cloud backup, you will need to use backup software to copy your files to the remote server.

3. Hybrid Backups:

A hybrid backup is a type of air gap backup that is stored on both a local and cloud-based storage device. Hybrid backups offer the benefits of both local and cloud backups. To create a hybrid backup, you will need to use backup software to copy your files to both the local and cloud-based storage devices.

4. Portable Backups:

A portable backup is a type of air gap backup that is stored on a physically separate device that can be easily transported. Portable backups are typically stored on an external hard drive, USB flash drive, or SD card. To create a portable backup, you will need to connect your external storage device to your computer and use backup software to copy your files to the device.

Also, Read: Storage as a Service: Defining Your Public Cloud Storage Strategy

How to Create an Air Gap Backup?

There are four main ways to create an air gap backup:

1. Use Backup Software:

The first way to create an air gap backup is to use backup software. There are many different types of backup software available, so be sure to choose a program that is compatible with your operating system and meets your needs. Once you have selected backup software, follow the instructions provided by the program to create your backup.

2. Manually Copy Files:

The second way to create an air gap backup is to manually copy your files to an external storage device. To do this, you will need to connect your external storage device to your computer and use a file manager to copy your files to the device.

3. Use Built-in Tools:

The third way to create an air gap backup is to use the built-in tools provided by your operating system. For example, Windows 10 includes the File History tool that can be used to create backups of your files. To use the File History tool, open the Control Panel and select “Backup and Restore (Windows 7)”. Then, click “Set up backup” and follow the instructions provided by the wizard.

4. Use a R sync Server:

The fourth way to create an air gap backup is to use a R sync server. R sync is a type of file synchronization software that can be used to create backups of your files. To use R sync, you will need to install the software on both your computer and the external storage device. Once R sync is installed, you can use the software to copy your files to the external storage device.

Air gap backups are a great way to keep your data safe from malware and other malicious software. There are many different ways to create an air gap backup, so be sure to choose the method that is right for you.

Conclusion

An air gap backup is a type of backup that is stored on a physically separate device. There are many different ways to create an air gap backup, but the most common methods involve using backup software or manually copying files. Air gap backups are a great way to keep your data safe from malware and other malicious software. We hope this article has helped you understand air gap backups and how to create them. Thanks for reading!

FAQs

1. What is an air gap backup?

An air gap backup is a type of backup that is stored on a physically separate device. Air gap backups are typically stored on an external hard drive, USB flash drive, or SD card.

2. How do I create an air gap backup?

There are four main ways to create an air gap backup: use backup software, manually copy files, use built-in tools, or use a R sync server.

3. What are the benefits of an air gap backup?

Air gap backups offer several benefits, including protection from malware and other malicious software. Additionally, air gap backups can be used to recover data in the event of a power outage or other disaster.

4. Are there any disadvantages to an air gap backup?

One disadvantage of an air gap backup is that it can be time-consuming to create. Additionally, air gap backups require a dedicated storage device, which can be expensive.

5. What are some common uses for an air gap backup?

Air gap backups are commonly used to protect critical data from being lost or corrupted. Additionally, air gap backups can be used to recover data in the event of a power outage or other disaster.

6. What should I do if I lose my air gap backup? 

If you lose your air gap backup, you should contact the manufacturer of your backup software or external storage device. They may be able to provide you with a replacement. Additionally, you can use a data recovery service to attempt to recover your data.