Backup

A backup refers to a copy of data or information, or a reserve or substitute that can be used in case the original is lost, damaged, or otherwise unavailable. This can apply to digital data, physical objects, or personnel. The primary function of a backup is to provide redundancy and ensure continuity by allowing for recovery from failures or unforeseen circumstances. It's a crucial aspect of data security, emergency preparedness, and organizational resilience, offering a safety net to protect against potential disruptions and maintain operational capabilities. Effective backups are regularly updated and stored in a separate location to avoid loss from similar disasters that affect primary copies.

Backup meaning with examples

• To prevent data loss, Sarah regularly created a backup of her computer's hard drive onto an external drive. This ensured she could restore her files if her primary drive crashed. The process also required a routine check to verify its integrity after saving all of her documents, photos, and important programs to her saved copy.
• Before the system upgrade, the IT team made a full backup of the entire server, ensuring that if the upgrade failed, they could revert to the previous working version of the system and avoid any downtime with all data secured. They knew their safety protocols.
• The company hired a backup security guard to cover shifts during vacations and sick leaves. This ensured that there would always be personnel to maintain a safe work environment in this high-risk location. This helped to create a seamless protection strategy.
• During the theatrical performance, the stage manager had a backup script and a copy of the musical score readily available. They knew to anticipate all sorts of potential equipment and/or technical problems or actor's memory lapses.
• After a power outage, the facility's backup generator automatically kicked in to maintain power. This helped to make sure essential services could continue to run without interruption, preventing significant losses of money and/or lives.