Backup is the logical or physical provisioning of facilities, in order to speed-up the process of restart and recovery following network failures. It also applies to redundant facilities, including duplicated transaction files, duplicated processors, storage devices, terminals, telecommunications hardware or switches.
A duplicate copy of data made for archiving purposes or for protecting against damage or loss. Some programs backup data files while maintaining both the current version and the preceding version on disk. To be considered secure, the Backup must be stored away from the original.
A duplication of a file saved elsewhere in case of corruption or loss of the original.
Duplicate copy of a disk or program.
Copying files that are stored on a hard drive to another medium such as floppy disks or a backup tape.
Storing another copy of data to make sure it doesn't accidently get lost. See tar.
A process of storing information on a daily basis to prevent loss in the case of catastrophy. A backup procedure consists of hardware (tape drive and tapes), software ( the tape archive utility - tar), communications (the network) and people (the system manager, assisted by clerical staff). The backup is run by an automatic process each night so that all user files are stored safely on tape. In the case of loss, files can be restored from as early as five previous working days.
A spare copy of anything. Do this often when working on important document.
The process whereby copies of computer files are taken in order to allow recreation of the original, should the need arise. A backup is a spare copy of a file, file system, or other resource for use in the event of failure or loss of the original. The term is most commonly used to refer to a copy of all the files on a computer's disks which is made periodically and kept on magnetic tape or other removable medium (also called a 'dump').
To copy data files and configuration files from one location to another location or FTP server to preserve usable copies in case of system failure. See also restore.
A copy of programs or data usually stored apart from the system on which it was created.
Creating an archive copy of digital information as insurance in the event the original information is lost or damaged.
means main transmission via X.21 or IP and backup via ISDN or main transmission via IP and watching another IP stream in case of failure on the main stream or
A copy of a file. Taken at regular intervals helps to avoid a total loss of your important work.
a copy of data files on a separate media, or the act of saving these files
The act of making a second (backup) copy of the data stored on a disk or other storage device, to safeguard against loss of data if there is damage to the primary copy.
An alternate method for providing a meteorological report, parts of reports or documentation of reports when the primary method is unavailable.
A duplicate copy of a file. You should back up your data files regularly so you have a spare copy if the original is accidentally damaged or lost.
Creates a copy of files that has been selected on the hard disk (through the backup application) and store this copy on another medium (tape, Zip disks etc) in a format that can only be restored back through the application
The process of creating a copy of data to ensure against its accidental loss.
Refers to a copy of a program, file, or data base. It also refers to the process of producing a copy.
A duplicate copy of a file or disk in another location if the original file or disk becomes corrupted.
Copying the current status/situation, so you can restore the data incase something goes wrong. See also Restore.
The process of making copies of your information that can be pressed into duty in the event of irreparable damage to your primary data tables.
A recent copy of website files stored in a separate location from the website, used in case of emergency or failure in which the original files are lost. It is highly recommended that you always keep a local back up, and update it frequently.
An alternate or redundant device that replaces a primary device in order to maintain continued operation in the event or primary device failure.
To print on the opposite side of a sheet already printed on Aligning images or text to match vertical lines on the opposite side of the page Storing important data safely by duplicating them onto discs, removable hard drives or other storage media
A copy of a file or disk. Making copies of software and/or data in case the original is lost, corrupted, or destroyed is referred to as 'backing up'.
Copy of files and applications made to avoid loss of data and facilitate recovery in the event of a system crash.
The process of copying important files and information from the PC's hard disk to another medium, such as floppy disks or tape. A disk or tape used to store files
To make a duplicate of the contents of a computer, usually onto a floppy disk or tape, in case of computer breakdown or viruses.
When a file is explicitly saved in the editor, a backup is automatically made by writing the old contents of the file to a backup before saving the new version of the file. The name of the backup file is that of the original file followed by a~ character.
You can create a backup of your course for future reference or for restoring should the need arise. A maximum of two backups can be stored on WebCT but they can be downloaded and uploaded to allow for historical archiving and retrieval.
Pertaining to equipment, procedures, or databases that can be used to restart the system in the event of system failure.
Making a copy of files is "backing up" the files. The copy is a "backup".
Creating copies of files for data security.
A computer backup is a duplicate set of data that can be used to retrieve files in the event of data loss. Backups are often stored using CD-R, DVD, or USB external hard drives.
An archived copy of files that you can restore if something goes wrong with the original files on the network. Backing up network files involves more than just making a copy of the files. It's important to use a backup product, such as NetWare's SBACKUP.NLM, that backs up not just the files themselves, but also the NetWare information associated with those files, such as trustee rights, Inherited Rights Filters, and file and directory attributes.
Storing one or more copies of data in case something goes wrong.
A duplicate file made to protect against the unexpected loss of data.
Copies of programs, databases and other files made with the purpose of allowing the information to be restored if it is lost due to computer failure, virus infection or other unforeseen event.
The process of duplicating information, primairly for protection against damage or loss.
An up-to-date copy of all your files. Your decision when or how often to make a back-up on how frequently important data depends on your system . If you rely on certain files always being available on your system, it is crucial that you make regular, consistent back-ups. (Ref: Dyson, Dictionary of Networking)
Copies of data and program files are called backups. It is always advisable to make backups of your data and programs.
A file in the user's home directory, containing a copy of a Palm database.
The process of copying critical information, data and software for the purpose of recovering essential processing back to the time the backup was taken.
A copy of electronic records and data that are retained to protect an organization against loss of the information. Backups can be stored on disks, tapes, or other machine-readable media. There are essentially two types of backups-security (See Backup, Security) and retention (See Backup, Retention).
Always backup your own files, of course, but a good host will have a daily backup of all data on their servers too. .
A process that copies data to a secondary storage area as a preventative measure to restore any lost data if the original storage area fails.
A backup is a duplicate copy of some data or a disk or some software that is made by the user as a safeguard against the loss of the original information. Should this happen then the information can be recovered by restoring or copying the information back from the backup.
A copy of all or part of the file system.
To make a copy of data and store it separately from the original.
(computer science) a copy of a file or directory on a separate storage device; "he made a backup in case the original was accidentally damaged or erased"
a complete, working copy of any program
a copy of a file, folder, selected essential information (eg
a copy of any data that is put into a safe archive just in case something goes wrong with your original copy, such as accidental deletion or files becoming corrupt
a copy of data from your database that can be used to reconstruct that data
a copy of online storage information that provides fault protection
a copy of the current databank file and may be used as the basis for a databank recovery operation, see ALTER DATABANK RESTORE
a copy of the filesystem or files on part of a filesystem stored onto another medium that can be used later to recreate the original
a copy of your computer files stored on either a disc, a tape, a CD or the network server
a device or a system for creating a copy of the information on your computer stored in such a manner that if you do have a terminal system failure, you can restore the information from that copy
a duplicate of a file, program, or disk that can be used if the original is lost, damaged, or destroyed
a duplicate of data used to restore data that has been damaged or lost
a duplicate of your files, that can be used as a replacement should any or all of the computer be destroyed
a good thing - a very good thing - but only to the extent that it's both recent and restorable
an additional copy of data stored on your computer
an extra, up-to-date copy of your important files stored in a place separate from your computer
a precaution, but not a requirement
a safeguard against unexpected data loss and application errors
a second copy of selected files on your hard disk
a second copy (or third or fourth copy) of
a service that protects your data from irreparable loss or damage and will provide you with a means to recover your data from offsite
a simply a copy of your important files
a single file that has to be broken apart during the restore process
a snapshot of a unique state of your disk's dataset
a snapshot of the database at a given time
To duplicate or archive files.
Backup Archive backup client
a copy of users working files kept on removable media as a security precaution.
An extra copy of a program or information stored on a disk or tape.
The process of making secondary copies of a file or files in the event that the original becomes damaged.
The process of copying computer files to some other location either on the computer, or on storage devices that may be separated from the computer. Backups allow you to recover data in the event that the originals are no longer available, for reasons ranging from accidental deletion to physical damage, theft, or other loss.
copies of any important file s and directories, duplicated on separate sets of removable media (eg disks), to ensure reliable restoration if needed
To copy information from one storage medium to another data storage medium.
Backup refers to making a copy of your files. The safest process for backing up your files is to keep the backup on a different medium, for example a CD.
The Archive Manager will allow you to backup and compress your website files. This is an excellent and free way of versioning your website code, images and more.
To make duplicate copies of data or software in case the originals are lost or destroyed.
To create a snapshot of the primary operating system through Administration Mode. Compare: Save See Also Restore.
Copy of files and programs made to facilitate recovery if necessary.
Making a copy of software and files/documents on another storage device so that it can be restored if the computer loses that information.
Duplicate copies of data to guard against data loss.
To duplicate data for storage purposes; also the data you duplicated can be referred to as your backup.
(Data): The process of copying data to be available if the original data is lost, destroyed or corrupted.
a copy of information taken as a precaution in case anything goes wrong with the original. Really important work should be backed up twice and the copies kept in separate places.
String Specifies a suffix to append to the file name. Use it with -edit to generate a backup file. -edit is a prerequisite for -backup String.
A copy of files or software made for safekeeping in a backup operation.
As a verb, backup means to copy computer files such that the original files can be restored/recovered if the need arises. As a noun, backup means the actual copied files themselves.
We use the term Backup to refer to a Bacula Job that saves files.
A copy of one or more files, directories, or filesystems that is stored apart from the original to safeguard against unplanned deletion. Used as a verb, it means to create a backup copy. The Archive option on the File menu allows you to copy files to backup media for safekeeping. See also archive.
A duplicate copy of data or other computer contents in case the original version is destroyed.
A Windows 95 program that allows the user to back up files from a hard disk onto a floppy disk, another computer, or tape drive.
is a means of saving your important data to a safe medium and location. Backups should be done regularly, especially with more critical information and configuration files (the most important directories to backup are /etc, /home and /usr/local). Traditionally, many people use tar with gzip or bzip2 to backup directories and files. You can use these tools or programs like dump and restore, along with many other free or commercial backup solutions.
Both of these terms are used as nouns and verbs. The noun form refers to any copy of a set of files (and the meta-data associated with them) on some form of removable media. The verb form refers to any process of creating such a set. An extra copy of a set of files to non-removable storage is sometimes referred to as `` a backup''- but this is more precisely referred to as `` replication'' or `` mirroring'' or (in some cases) `` version control''
Web site backup offers protection in the case of a web site, server, or software problem. With web site backup, your web site files are safe from most errors.
To make a second copy of your files , a very important thing to do frequently
The activity of copying files so that they will be preserved in case of equipment failure or other catastrophe.
The process of creating a copy of data or files for later retrieval in case of original data loss.
A copy of a program or data file. As a precaution, you should back up your computer’s hard drive on a regular basis.
Duplicate copy of a file or text that is stored somewhere safe.
To copy information, usually from a computer’s hard drive, onto a disk or tape drive. This protects the user against information loss if the computer’s hard drive becomes unusable.
A copy on floppy disk or tape of files on a PC's hard disk. A backup is used in case the hard disk file(s) are erased or damaged. Bit, bytes - A bit is the smallest piece of information that computers use. For simplicity, a PC uses bits in groups of 8 called bytes (8 bits = 1 byte).
A duplicate of a file or group of files from a system that is (typically) not stored on the system. The purpose of a backup is to be able to replace (or restore) the original files if the originals are damaged or destroyed.
Many spreadsheet programs will automatically create a backup of your current file. This gives you two copies of the same non-balancing file.
The process of creating a copy of computer data on an external storage medium, such as a floppy disk, tape, or external hard drive. If the external storage medium is remotely located, some form of data communications channel must be established between sites.
(n.) A copy of a disk or of a file on a disk. It's a good idea to make backups of all your important disks and to use the copies for everyday work, keeping the originals in a safe place.
A copy of a file, directory, or volume on a separate storage device from the original, for the purpose of Recovery in case the original is accidentally erased, damaged, or destroyed.
(noun) A collection of data stored on (usually removable) non-volatile storage media for purposes of recovery in case the original copy of data is lost or becomes inaccessible. Also called backup copy. To be useful for recovery, a backup must be made by copying the source data image when it is in a consistent state. * (verb) The act of creating a backup. (Provided by SNIA)
A duplicate of information as a preventative measure against its potential loss or data that is done regularly by many computer users. Many organizations also utilize automatic backup software that regularly stores data.
A representative copy of data. This copy includes important parts of your database such as control files, redo log files, and data files. A backup is a safeguard against unexpected data loss; if you lose your original data, you can use the backup to make data available again. A backup is also a safeguard against an application error; if an application makes incorrect changes, you can restore the backup.
A redundant safety system that is used when the primary device malfunctions.
a copy of a file made to ensure that the information will not be lost if the original is destroyed; a backup copy of a file can be made by saving it under a different name; backup copies of files are made periodically on the systems.
A duplicate copy of a file kept in case the original is lost, damaged or corrupted.
The process of storing the UNIX system, applications, and data files on removable media for future retrieval.
(1) A backup of data, that is, a database, tablespace, table, datafile, control file, or archived redo log. You can make a backup by: Using RMAN to back up one or more datafiles, control files, or archived logs Making a copy either to disk or to tape using operating system utilities Exporting one or more tables with an Oracle export utility, called a logical or object-level backup(2) An RMAN command that creates a backup set, proxy copy, or disk-based image copy. See Also: copy, backup set, multiplexing, RMAN
A copy of current computer files saved to a computer disk or magnetic tape in case of a computer system failure.
A copy of data and/or applications contained in the IT stored on magnetic media outside of the IT to be used in the event IT data are lost.
To make copies of important files in case the originals are damaged. Data can be backed up on external hard drives, floppy discs, CD-ROMs, tape, etc.
copying files from the medium upon which they are primarily stored to a second medium (disk or tape) as a precaution in case the primary medium fails.
1- A table or file that stores a copy of the database tables used for an application, 2- Or the process of copying a file or files to another storage device (disk or tape) to ensure that the data can be restored if the primary copy is accidentally or intentionally destroyed or damaged.
To duplicate your current files to a backup medium, e.g. tape, CD, Zip.
n. A duplicate copy of data made for archiving purposes or for protecting against damage or loss. v. The process of creating duplicate data. Some programs backup data files while maintaining both the current version and the preceding version on disk. However, a backup is not considered secure unless it is stored away from the original.
Keeping a copy of files and software on floppy disc or zip drive. Because computers are not infallible, it is good practice to do this.
The process of copying information for safekeeping. TSM has processes for backing up user files, the TSM database, and storage pools. For example, users can back up one or more files to a storage pool to ensure against loss of data. Contrast with restore.
Duplicating information from PC to a diskette which ensures that information is available in the event of loss or damage to the original information.
A snapshot or copy of data capable of being restored as necessary. backup application program A sequence of instructions that instructs the computer how to perform a backup, restore, or compare operation.
n. 1. the procedure for making security copies of computer data; for example, from a hard drive to either a floppy disk or a tape drive; 2. the disk, tape, or information copied.
storage: 1. (verb) Actually spelled "back up". The very necessary process of copying important software and documents onto some other medium (floppy disks, magnetic tape, et al.) to guard against their loss should anything happen to the original. 2. (noun) The media containing copies of important software and documents.
To take a recoverable copy of files, more information ...
A backup is a copy of data. You can use the backup to restore your data in case the original becomes compromised.
Used to describe the process of making a back up copy of a primary operating system or data to enable system restoration if an error or failure occurs. Also, back up describes computer and other system hardware that are used to automatically pick up the load of the primary hardware device when that device fails.
A spare copy of a file, file system or other resource for use in the event of failure or loss of the original. The term is most commonly used to refer to a copy of all the files on a computer's disks which is made periodically and kept on magnetic tape or other removable medium. This essential precaution is neglected by most new computer users until the first time they experience a disk crash or accidentally delete the only copy of the file they have been working on for the last six months. Ideally the backup copies should be kept at a different site or in a fire safe since, though your hardware may be insured against fire, the data on it is almost certainly neither insured nor easily replaced.
A copy of a working environment, taken on a regular basis to provide security against disaster or loss. The lifetime of the backup may be quite short, depending upon the frequency that the backup copies are taken.
The process of safeguarding data by copying it to another computer or data storage medium.
The process of storing system and/or file information on tape or hard drives in case of loss or other catastrophic event.
Storage method of creating a copy of important programs and data.
Copies of data and program files. Usually the information on a hard drive or disk is stored on a separate disk. If you store any of your journaling, family history, or photographs on your computer it is vital that you create a backup file. Close Window
an extra copy of your computer work, kept on a separate disk or tape for safety's sake in case anything happens to the original.
(verb) to make a copy of a file or program for the purpose of restoring the data if the masters were to be lost, damaged, or otherwise unavailable for use. 2. (noun) a copy of a master file or program. To be most effective from a security standpoint, backup files are frequently stored at off-site locations.
backup, or backing-up, refers to making a copy of data, files, and databases to preserve a relatively current copy in case something should happen to the current data, such as corruption or deletion.
A single backup operation that copies specified files or file systems to removable media. A backup may extend over several backup volumes and constitutes either a full or an incremental backup. Also referred to as a dump.
A system, device, file or facility that can be used as an alternative in case of a malfunction or loss of data.
Backup is the process of preserving copies of files on a different drive, directory, or media (often floppy disks or tape) to protect against the destruction or loss of the original files in the event of hardware or system failure. Two backups are often recommended: one onsite and another offsite. Source: Microsoft's New Computer Users Glossary
To copy software files onto a different media that can be sorted separately from the original files and used to restore the original files, if needed. The act of creating these files. . The set of copied files.
A copy of a file, directory, or disk made for safe keeping.
To make a copy of a file, group of files, or the entire contents of a hard disk – either for archiving purposes or for safeguarding valuable files from loss should the active copy be damaged or destroyed.
A copy of a file or application that is kept separate from the original as a precaution against data loss in the event the original is lost or destroyed.
To create another copy of computer data. All important data on a computer should be backed up. No single data storage format is infallible; all have the potential to fail. Modern hard drives are expected to last about 5 years before they start to degrade. If you have very important or business critical data, not only should you have an up to date backup, but you should keep another copy 'off site' in case of major theft, fire or flood.
To create a copy of a disk’s contents on another location for safe keeping. Since hard drives are not infallible, it is recommended that you backup its contents regularly.
A copy of the data that is stored in case the original copy is lost or damaged.
Process of copying files onto disk or CD-Rom for safekeeping so that they are kept in more than one place.
A backup is a duplicate copy of data designed to be kept long term, usually for security or audit reasons. It allows the user to restore the data should the original be lost or damaged in any way.
Making an extra copy or copies of a program or data in case the original is damaged, lost, or destroyed.
To copy files to a second medium (a disk or tape) as a precaution in case the first medium fails. One of the cardinal rules in using computers is "Back up your files regularly". Even the most reliable computer is apt to break down eventually. Many professionals recommend that you make two, or even three, backups of all your files. To be especially safe, you should keep one backup in a different location from the others. (Source: http://webopedia.internet.com).
A second, safe copy of a file, letter or data. You should do regular backups of your important work in case something goes wrong and you erase it. It might seem boring at the time,. But its far more boring to type all the information back in again. Normally you back up data on a little cassette tape or, if you don't have too much, on to floppy disks. Windows has a utility that makes backing up easy. You tell in which folder, directory or file you want to copy and whether you want to make a backup to a floppy disk or tape. Once you have made a backup, keep it well away from your main computer.
To store data in an archive, especially a duplicate copy of a program.
The process of copying one or more files to a backup storage pool to protect against data loss.
Pertaining to an alternative copy used as a substitute if the original is lost or destroyed, such as a backup log. The act of saving some or all of the objects on a system to a tape, diskette, or save file. The tapes, diskettes, or save files with the saved objects. For communications, see switched network backup (SNBU). In Backup Recovery and Media Services, a service that makes a duplicate copy of current direct access data on removable media for use in recovery.
A copy of a program or data file on a floppy disk, CD, or hard drive. As a precaution, back up the data files from your hard drive regularly.
a copy of an electronic record maintained to protect the information from loss
A duplicate copy of a program, a disk, or data, made either for archiving purposes or for safeguarding valuable files from loss should the active copy be damaged or destroyed. A backup is an "insurance" copy. Some application programs automatically make backup copies of data files, maintaining both the current version and the preceding version on disk. Also called backup copy, backup file.
A copy of a program or data file. As a precaution, back up your system's hard drive on a regular basis. Before making a change to the configuration of your system, back up important start-up files from your operating system.
To create a copy of data as a precaution against the loss or damage of the original data. Most users backup some of their files, and many computer networks utilize automatic backup software to make regular copies of some or all of the data on the network. Some backup systems use digital audio tape (DAT) as a storage medium.
Any duplicate of a primary resource, such as a copy of a computer program or data file, to be used in case of loss or failure of the primary resource. The process of creating a backup copy.
Copies of programs, databases, other files etc. are made with the purpose to restore information in case of loosing it, for instance, because of a computer failure or a virus infection.
A backup is a precautionary measure where computer files are copied or saved onto another medium, e.g. magnetic tape, in case the original fails, is damaged, accidentally deleted or destroyed.
An extra copy of a disk or file made in case the original disk is lost or ruined. Make backups of all master disks immediately upon receiving or purchasing a new piece of software. Also make backups of important work disks and files.
a redundant copy of some subset of the data represented in the OMS. The subset is capable of restoration to active use by a PCIS implementation, particularly in the event of a loss of completeness or integrity in the data in use by the implementation.
Creating extra copies of files in case the original copies are damaged or destroyed. It has been said that you should have at least three copies of important files- one on your hard disk, one on a floppy, and another on any media stored off-site in a fire-proof safe. That may be a little paranoid but consider what would happen if you lost particular files. Let that dictate how many backups you have and how carefully they are stored and updated.
(v) to copy files to a second medium (a disk or tape) as a precaution in case the first medium fails. One of the cardinal rules in using computers is: Back up your files regularly. (n) a copy of your files. 5points.net offers backup services to ensure the integrity, availability and security of your data.
Backing up is c opying or saving data to a different location. The copied files can be restored in case of system crash or system failure.
The concept of carrying fully functional backup systems to replace primaries in the event of failure.
To make a second copy of a file as a safety measure. The copy may be held on a floppy disk, a zip disk, or on CD-ROM.
A function permitting users to copy one or more files to a storage pool to protect against data loss. Contrast with restore.
A duplicate of electronic files (programs. data or operating systems). It is available in place of the original in case of corruption/loss/availability problems. A wise person creates backups frequently.
To make duplicates of files on a separate medium.
make a copy of data for safekeeping; a copy of material for safekeeping
To copy files to a second medium (a disk or tape) as a precaution in case the first medium fails. One of the cardinal rules in using computers is Backup your files regularly. Even the most reliable computer is apt to break down eventually. For SEMCI PARTNER® users it is important that you backup all files under the SIS directory on a daily basis. To be especially safe, you should keep one backup in a different location from the others.
A duplicate copy of data placed in a separate, safe "place"— electronic storage, on a tape, on a disk in a vault—to guard against total loss in the event the original data somehow becomes inaccessible. Generally for short-term safety.
The term backup usually refers to a disk, drive or tape that contains a copy of original data; or to the act of backing up. Secondary copies are made as a precaution, in case the original data becomes lost or corrupted; either by human error, disk failure, fire or theft. One of the cardinal rules in using computers is to back up your files regularly, as even the most reliable computers can break down. Ideally, multiple backup versions should be made and kept in a different location to the original.
1. The process of duplicating information primarily for protection in case the original is lost or destroyed. 2. A copy of the record. (1)
copying information from a hard disk onto another data storage medium
A copy of a file, a set of files, or whole disk for safekeeping in case the original is lost or damaged.
Copy. For safety reasons every computer program should be backed up so that if a program is lost during operation, or if a storage medium should become damaged, a safety copy, or backup is available. 'To backup' = to copy.
An up-to-date copy of all your files that you can use to reload your hard disk in case of an accident. It is an insurance against disk failure affecting the hundreds or possibly thousands of files yo ... more
To copy important data to an alternate storage device so to have a safe copy incase the data is lost or corrupted in the future. Backups can be run to other computers, CD's, zip disks or corporate solutions like DAT and DLT tapes.
a copy of a file or disk you make for archiving purposes.
Copy of current and/or recent data for short-term storage in case of catastrophic loss. Only data changed or added since the backup was made will be lost. Backups should be made frequently. Their usefulness is over when a more recent backup is made. Contrast with Archive.
Pertaining to a system, device, file, or facility that can be used in the event of a malfunction or loss of data.
also written as back up, to copy or save a program or file for safe keeping in the event the working program fails in some way or is lost. It is wise to back up all files on floppy, zip disks, or tape. Many software applications periodi cally prompt you to save your work while you are actually working. However, a usershould still backup all work on the computer’s hard drive in case of malfunction or failure.
Copying or saving data to a different location. One can restore the backup copy if data is lost or damaged.
A copy of disk files stored on tape or on another physical disk to prevent permanent data loss. The act of copying disk files to tape or other distinct physical media to prevent permanent data loss.
(v.) In computing, to create a "safe" extra copy of data recorded on floppy disk, magnetic tape, or other storage medium. 2. (n.) The actual copy of data recorded in the process described above.
A backup is a copy that is made of a file, document, disk or network so that if the original is lost or damaged, a recent copy is available to replace it. It is good practice to make a backup regularly and after major changes.
Backup is a simple Mac OS X-only software program made by Apple for file backups. It is available through Apple's .Mac collection of Internet services. Backup can be used in connection with either a user's .Mac i Disk or the Macintosh's CD-RW or DVD-R drive to make safe, archival copies of critical files and folders.
In the field of information technology, backup refers to the copying of data so that these additional copies may be restored after a data loss event. Backups are useful primarily for two purposes: to restore a computer to an operational state following a disaster (called disaster recovery) and to restore small numbers of files after they have been accidentally deleted or corrupted. Backups differ from archives in the sense that archives are the primary copy of data and backups are a secondary copy of data.