backup [English]

InterPARES Definition

n. (back up, v.) ~ IP2, Computing · A copy of a data file made for the purpose of system recovery.

Other Definitions

  • SAA Glossary 2005 (†241 ): n. ~ 1. A copy of all or portions of software or data files on a system kept on storage media, such as tape or disk, or on a separate system so that the files can be restored if the original data is deleted or damaged. – 2. Equipment held in reserve that can be substituted in case equipment in regular use fails. – back up, v. ~ 3. To create such copies of data. Notes: In information technology, 'archive' is commonly used as a synonym for 'backup' and 'back up'.
  • Wikipedia (†387 s.v. backup): The copying and archiving of computer data so it may be used to restore the original after a data loss event.

Citations

  • CNSS-4009 (†730 p.6): Copy of files and programs made to facilitate recovery, if necessary (†1724)
  • Furht and Escalante 2010 (†583 p.353): ...cloud computing means easier administration, with issues such as licensing, backup, and security being taken care of elsewhere. (†1167)
  • ISACA Glossary (†743 s.v. backup): Files, equipment, data and procedures available for use in the event of a failure or loss, if the originals are destroyed or out of service. (†1763)
  • Wikipedia (†387 s.v. backup): Backups have two distinct purposes. The primary purpose is to recover data after its loss, be it by data deletion or corruption. ... The secondary purpose of backups is to recover data from an earlier time, according to a user-defined data retention policy, typically configured within a backup application for how long copies of data are required. (†1279)