Backup validation ensures the success of a backup and data integrity. It involves examining backup protocols, comparing data, capacity planning, and can be done in-house or outsourced to a consultant.
Backup validation is a strategy that has to do with checking and verifying the success of a backup of database information or other files commonly used on a network. The goal of any backup validation process is to make sure that the backup was successful and that the data involved has not been damaged or corrupted in any way. This helps ensure that should some kind of catastrophic situation arise that destroys the main database, backup sources can be used to successfully rebuild the database.
The backup validation process involves examining every aspect of the backup process. This usually begins with an examination of the function of the backup protocols used to manage the copying and archiving of essential information. The idea is to compare the data held in the main database with the copies of the data and make sure that nothing has been lost due to the software used. If and when problems are found, this can lead to identifying the source of the problem and making changes to the protocols so that data integrity is kept intact. This is easily one of the most basic approaches to validation and can be employed by both businesses and home networks.
Another important aspect of backup validation has to do with what is known as capacity planning. The idea here is to make sure that the procedures used to back up data are sufficient to handle the growing information load that is processed in each backup session. At the same time, attention is paid to the amount of capacity left on the resources used to receive and store backup data. Planning ahead lets you know when additional resources need to be protected to avoid disruption to already backed up data and also to ensure that new data can continue to be copied, archived and retrieved with ease.
While a basic backup validation may be performed by some users and system administrators, it is also possible to outsource this function to a vendor partner. Typically, a consultant will be able to read the log files associated with backup activity, assess the quality of the data backed up, and also predict future capacity needs. From there, the consultant can make suggestions on how to refine or modify backup processes so that captured data remains intact and is easily accessible in the event of a disaster.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
