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Definitions[]

Computing[]

Backup is

[t]he saving of information onto off-line and/or on-line mass storage device(s) for the purpose of preventing loss of data in the event of equipment failure or destruction. Backups are primarily used to restore a computer to an operational state following a disaster. Backups differ from archives in the sense that archives are the primary copy of data and backups are a secondary convenience copy of data.[1]

Cryptography[]

Back-up is

(noun) "[t]he process of placing at least one copy of a key in a safe facility or facilities so that the key can be quickly retrieved if the original key is lost or modified."[2]

(verb} "[t]o copy a key and/or metadata to a medium that is separate from that used for operational storage and from which the key and/or metadata can be recovered if the original values in operational storage are lost or modified."[3]

Data[]

(noun) A back-up is a copy of files and programs made to facilitate recovery if necessary.[4]

Back-up is

[a]ny duplicate of a primary resource function, such as a copy of a computer program or data file. This standby is used in case of loss or failure of the primary resource.[5]

General[]

Back-up is

[a] [p]rocedure, system, or data collection to provide replication of lost files or systems in the event of a computer failure.[6]
[t]he process of copying information or processing status to a redundant system, service, device or medium that can provide the needed processing capability when needed.[7]

Preservation[]

Back-up is

[a]dditional copies of a digital asset made to protect against loss due to unintended destruction or corruption of the primary set of digital assets.The essential attribute of a back-up copy is that the information it contains can be restored in the event that access to the master copy is lost.[8]

References[]

See also[]

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