Backup software automatically copies your data to a separate location so you can get it back if the original is lost, damaged or encrypted. It sounds simple, but the difference between good and poor backup software only becomes obvious on the day you need to restore.
What does backup software actually do?
At its core, backup software does three jobs:
- Captures data on a schedule – files, databases, entire disks or virtual machines.
- Stores versions somewhere separate from the original – a NAS, tape, or the cloud – and keeps them for as long as your retention policy says.
- Restores anything from a single file to a complete server, ideally quickly and to whatever hardware you have available.
The main types of backup
Image backup
An image backup copies an entire disk, including the operating system, applications and settings. It’s the fastest way to rebuild a failed server or laptop because you don’t need to reinstall anything.
File-level backup
File backup copies selected files and folders. It’s useful for protecting specific data sets and for quick restores of individual documents.
Cloud and SaaS backup
Cloud backup sends copies off-site to a provider’s data centre. SaaS backup protects data that already lives in the cloud, such as Microsoft 365 mailboxes and OneDrive, which most providers don’t back up for you in the way people assume.
Why backup software matters more than ever
Ransomware has changed the game. Attackers now deliberately look for and destroy backups before encrypting production systems. Modern backup software counters this with immutable backups that can’t be changed or deleted, malware scanning of backups, and built-in ransomware detection.
How to choose backup software
Look for broad platform coverage, flexible storage targets, immutability, encryption, automatic backup validation and fast recovery options. Our backup software buyer’s guide covers each in detail.
Many UK businesses choose Acronis Cyber Protect – the successor to Acronis Backup – because it combines image and file backup, Microsoft 365 protection and anti-ransomware in one agent. If you’d like a recommendation for your setup, request a free quote.