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Data Backup Guide: Local, Cloud and Immutable

Everything you need to know about the different types of backup: how to choose, when to use each, and why immutable is critical

Why are backups critical?

Data backup isn't optional. It's a must for every business. Failures happen, computers break, ransomware strikes, and people make mistakes. Without a working backup, you could lose data forever.

At Rtek, we help businesses choose the right backup solution and implement it professionally, as part of our complete backup and recovery services. We specialize in local backups, cloud backups, and especially immutable backups that protect against ransomware.

Different types of backup

Each type of backup fits different needs. Here's what you need to know

Local backup

Fast backup to a server or local device at your business: fast restore, full control and no dependence on the internet.

Cloud backup

Secure data storage outside your business premises: protection against fire, theft and local failures.

Immutable backup

Backups that cannot be changed: maximum protection against ransomware, deletion and encryption of backups.

Hybrid backup

A combination of local + cloud + immutable backup: a comprehensive, professional protection solution for any business.

Local backup: what is it and who is it for?

A local backup is a backup stored on a physical device inside the business: a hard drive, a local server, or a NAS (Network Attached Storage) system.

Pros

  • Fast restore: data is available immediately
  • No dependence on the internet
  • Full control over your data
  • Predictable costs (no monthly fee)

Cons

  • Vulnerable to the same location (fire, theft)
  • Requires physical maintenance
  • Limited capacity
  • Not accessible remotely

Who is local backup for?

Local backup suits businesses that need fast restores, have a lot of data, are willing to invest in maintenance, or prefer full control over their data. We always recommend combining it with cloud backup for maximum protection.

Cloud backup: what is it and who is it for?

A cloud backup is a backup stored on cloud servers, outside the business. The data is transferred over the internet and stored on cloud providers' secure servers.

Pros

  • Protected against local failures (fire, theft)
  • Accessible from anywhere with internet
  • Unlimited capacity (depending on your plan)
  • Automatic: no physical maintenance needed
  • Pay as you go (flexible costs)

Cons

  • Depends on the internet (slower to restore)
  • Monthly costs add up
  • Depends on the cloud provider
  • Less control over your data

Who is cloud backup for?

Cloud backup suits businesses that need protection against local failures, don't want to invest in physical maintenance, or prefer a monthly payment over a one-time investment. We always recommend it as part of a hybrid solution together with local backup.

Immutable backup: maximum protection against ransomware

What is an immutable backup?

An immutable backup (one that cannot be changed) is a backup that cannot be deleted, modified, or encrypted, not even by authorized users or malware.

Why does it matter so much today?

Today's advanced ransomware doesn't just encrypt the original data. It also tries to delete or encrypt regular backups. If the backup is a regular one, the ransomware can destroy it too, and then there is no way to restore.

The scary scenario:

Ransomware strikes → encrypts the data → finds and encrypts the backups → no way to restore!

How does it work?

Immutable backups use special protection technologies that ensure the backup cannot change:

  • Object Lock - locking objects for the retention period
  • Write-Once-Read-Many (WORM) - write once, read many times
  • Versioning - keeping versions that cannot be deleted
  • Snapshots - point-in-time images that cannot be changed

Benefits of immutable backup

Why immutable backup is the smart choice for today's businesses

Protection against ransomware

Immutable backups cannot be deleted or encrypted by ransomware, which ensures you will always have a way to restore.

Cannot be changed

Immutable backups are protected against modification, deletion or editing, even by authorized users or malware.

Point-in-time preservation

Every backup point is kept in its original state with no way to change it, which allows an exact restore to any point in time.

Regulatory compliance

Immutable backups meet regulatory requirements for retaining data unchanged, as required by the Privacy Protection Law.

Which type of backup is right for you?

The short answer: a combination of all of them. The best solution is a hybrid backup that combines:

Local backup

For fast restore and support for day-to-day work

Cloud backup

For protection against local failures and disasters

Immutable backup

For maximum protection against ransomware and deletion

The 3-2-1-1-0 backup rule

3
3 copies
The original + 2 backup copies
2
2 types of media
For example, local + cloud
1
1 off-site
One backup must be outside the business
1
1 immutable
At least one backup must be immutable
0
0 errors
0 backup errors: ongoing monitoring and maintenance

FAQ about types of backup

Answers to important questions about local, cloud and immutable backup

What is an immutable backup?
An immutable backup is a backup that cannot be deleted, changed or encrypted, even by authorized users or malware. This is achieved through special technical safeguards that ensure the backup stays as it is until the end of the retention period. This is critical for protection against ransomware that tries to encrypt or delete backups.
Why do you need an immutable backup?
Advanced ransomware can also encrypt or delete regular backups. An immutable backup prevents this completely. In addition, it helps meet regulatory requirements for retaining data unchanged. This is especially critical for businesses that hold sensitive data or are subject to regulatory requirements.
What is the difference between local and cloud backup?
A local backup is stored on a local device (hard drive, NAS, server) inside the business. It is fast to restore and does not depend on the internet, but it is vulnerable to anything that hits the same location. A cloud backup is stored on cloud servers. It is protected against local failures and accessible from anywhere, but it depends on the internet and is slower to restore. Combining both is the most recommended approach.
Which type of backup is best?
The best solution is a hybrid backup: a combination of local backup (for fast restore), cloud backup (for protection against local failures), and immutable backup (for protection against ransomware). This ensures maximum protection, and there is always a way to restore your data, no matter what happens.
How long does it take to restore from a local backup compared to a cloud backup?
A local backup is usually faster to restore: it can take minutes to hours, depending on the amount of data. A cloud backup is slower because the data has to be downloaded over the internet: it can take hours to days for large amounts of data. That is why a combination is recommended: local backup for fast restore, and cloud backup as a safety net.
How do you know the immutable backup really works?
Immutable backups are verified through periodic tests that try to change or delete them (in a controlled environment). If that isn't possible, the backup is sound. In addition, we run periodic restore tests to make sure the backup can actually be restored and that the data is intact.
Is an immutable backup more expensive?
An immutable backup can be slightly more expensive than a regular backup because of the advanced technology and additional safeguards, but the difference is usually not large. Given the maximum protection it provides, especially against ransomware, it is worth the investment. We'll be happy to offer a quote tailored to your needs.
How does Rtek help me choose the right type of backup?
We start with a comprehensive needs assessment: we look at the amount of data, the type of information, regulatory requirements, budget and business needs. Based on that, we recommend a tailored backup solution: local, cloud, immutable or a combination. We also provide ongoing management, periodic testing and 24/7 technical support.

Ready to implement a professional backup solution?

At Rtek, we specialize in implementing local, cloud and immutable backup solutions. We'll be happy to help you choose the right solution and implement it professionally.

Let's talk about your needs Call now: +972-58-550-8080

Want to be sure your data is protected?

Contact us today for an initial call with no commitment. We'll explain how a hybrid backup solution with immutable backup can protect your business.

Schedule a call Call: +972-58-550-8080