What is Cloud Backup and How Does it Work?

What is cloud backup? It’s a simple enough question, but a lot goes into answering it. In theory, cloud backup is easy to understand. The cloud offers limitless backup capacity. Copy your data over to a cloud platform, and you’ve backed it up on the cloud, right? Yes, and no. Cloud backup is about more than just storing safe copies of your data on the cloud. It’s part of a broader strategy of data security and cyber resilience. It has many moving parts, including a cloud backup and recovery solution, specialized backup software, cloud providers, and much more. This article explores how cloud backup works and what it takes to make the process a success.  

Understanding cloud backup fundamentals 

What’s involved in cloud backup? Let’s explore a definition and comparison between cloud backup and conventional backup. Also, while we talk about ‘cloud backup’ in this article, it’s important to keep in mind that the concept also includes data recovery from the cloud. Backup and recovery go together. Indeed, backup without a proven recovery process is a disaster waiting to happen.  

Defining cloud backup  

Cloud backup refers to a multi-stage process that safely stores backup copies of data on cloud platforms. These platforms could be public, using providers like Wasabi or Amazon Web Services (AWS), or private. Keep in mind that the actual backup, the copying of data to the cloud, is only one part of a much broader workflow. The process actually starts before any data moves at all. Stakeholders, including system owners, data custodians, backup managers, security teams, and cloud managers need to get together to figure out what data needs to be backed up, how often backups will occur, and what the priority will be for recovery.  

There needs to be agreement on recovery time objectives (RTOs) and recovery point objectives (RPOs). The latter refers to the point in time before which data can be restored. For example, in a financial transaction application, the RPO might specify that transactions up to one minute old, and older, will be available for restoration within one minute, which is the RTO.  

Comparing cloud backup to traditional backup methods 

Cloud backup is not all that different from traditional backup, but there are a few places where the two diverge. With legacy backup, an organization typically owns and controls every element of the process. It owns the storage volumes and servers that hold backed up data. Cloud backup on a public cloud platform places backed up data on infrastructure owned by a third party. This relationship requires a separation of responsibilities. The client is usually responsible for maintaining and securing its backed-up data and backup systems that are hosted on the cloud platform. The cloud provider, in turn, is responsible for operating and securing its infrastructure.  

There are also differences in cost. While cloud backup does not require capital expense (CapEx) as does traditional backup for equipment, the client pays for cloud storage on an ongoing basis. It’s an operating expense (OpEx). Cloud storage pricing varies by provider, so it’s a good idea to pay close attention to the details of the cloud services agreement before committing to a cloud provider. 

Benefits of cloud backup 

Cloud backup has its advantages over conventional approaches. In addition to enabling organizations to avoid CapEx and conserve cash, cloud backup offers limitless capacity and the ability to scale on demand. Massive storage capacity is available immediately, often with different tiering options for performance. Geographic diversity is a further benefit, with the potential to back data up to more than one location for better resiliency.  

The mechanics of cloud backup 

What are the mechanics of cloud backup? It’s a careful choreography between multiple software applications, storage hardware, and policy.  

How cloud backup systems initiate and manage data transfers 

Cloud backup systems initiate and manage data transfers according to programmed settings. Most of the activity is automated but based on several key criteria: 

• The type of backup, e.g., incremental, full, or differential 

• Timing, e.g., daily, hourly, weekly, etc. 

• Priority, i.e., which data has highest priority for backup? 

• Target cloud storage platforms, e.g., platforms chosen for speed of recovery 

A cloud backup solution will copy data to the cloud according to the schedules and destinations set by these parameters. In some cases, the best approach is to arrange for back up on cloud object storage, such as the service offered by Wasabi. Depending on the volume of data and backup policies, it may be optimal to schedule the backup process for times when the system is not in heavy use, such as evenings or on weekends. If the RPO is very short, however, that may not be possible. In that case, backup many need to be instantaneous and continuous. 

The role of encryption in cloud backup security 

Data is an attractive target for hackers, and backed-up data volumes are no exception. It is therefore a best practice to apply encryption to backed-up data both in transit and at rest. The goal is to make it impossible for attackers to identify sensitive data they can breach, and to make any data they exfiltrate worthless to them. It is also possible to use cryptography to create an immutable backup, which cannot be modified or deleted. Immutable backups, such as those enabled by Wasabi, create a virtual “air gap” that walls off backed-up data from malicious actors. 

Types of cloud backup solutions 

Backup managers have a range of choices when it comes to cloud storage. They can opt for public clouds like Wasabi or hyperscaler providers, private cloud infrastructure, or a hybrid. The important thing to keep in mind is that the cloud is a software architecture, not a product. The cloud abstracts physical infrastructure from the control plane. It can be implemented in different ways, creating options for backup and recovery in the process. 

Public cloud vs. private cloud backup options 

When people talk about “the cloud,” they’re almost always referring to the three major public cloud platforms: AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). These platforms offer cloud backup services. For example, GCP has Google Cloud Backup and DR (disaster recovery). This service lets admins manage backups across multiple workloads, generating backups for VMware virtual machines, SAP landscapes, and so forth. One is not required to use a cloud provider’s in-house backup service, but it can be an easy option in many cases. 

The private cloud is another option. These are deployments of cloud platforms on private infrastructure. For example, a company might use an open-source solution like OpenStack to create a cloud environment in its own data center. Reasons for taking this approach might include a desire for flexibility, control, or security. Or, it could be a regulatory requirement, such as for protected health information (PHI), which cannot be stored on a public cloud platform. Backup managers have the option of using the private cloud for backup. The difference is that private clouds do not have the public cloud’s endless capacity and ability to scale on demand. There will be capacity limits and CapEx in a private cloud.  

Hybrid cloud solutions for flexible data management 

A cloud environment need not be all public or private. Nor does a company’s IT estate have to be entirely in the cloud or on-premises. A hybrid cloud is one that spans cloud and on-premises infrastructure. A multi-cloud environment extends across more than one cloud provider. Many organizations have a combination. They might run applications and store data on-premises, as well as on a public cloud provider. This arrangement is increasingly common.  

Multi- and hybrid cloud architectures offer flexibility and good geographic options. However, they can complicate backup and recovery. To keep track of the data that requires backing up in a complex cloud environment, it may be best to implement a backup software solution, such as Veeam. This type of solution contains functionality that protects mixed environments and enables admins to manage backups with a single interface.  

The importance of cloud backup for businesses

Thorough and reliable backup is essential for business continuity and disaster recovery, as well as for preventing data loss. Cloud backup helps achieve these objectives through its flexibility and dynamic scalability.  

Protecting against data loss and system failures 

Cloud backups are a good countermeasure to mitigate the risk of data loss and system failures. Currently, the biggest threat to data is from ransomware attacks, which encrypt data and require the payment of a ransom to decrypt it. Ransomware attacks are difficult to prevent, so restoring from your backup is often the only alternative to paying the ransom. However, the most skilled ransomware attackers will try to encrypt backed-up data as well. They want to make it impossible to avoid paying the ransom. Immutable storage and S3 object lock, available through Wasabi, makes this countermeasure viable.  

Ensuring business continuity in the face of disasters 

Backup is about more than just keeping data safe, however. Effective backup helps keep a business going. A successful ransomware attack or major outage, for instance, can disrupt a company’s ability to function and make money. In some cases, a bad attack can even put a company out of business. At a minimum, a serious disruption is bad for a company’s reputation. It might lead customers to conclude that the company is unreliable or untrustworthy, which can affect valuations and earnings. A strong backup and recovery program can restore not only data, but also your customers’ confidence. 

Evaluating cloud backup services 

What makes for a good cloud backup service? Wasabi covers this question in depth in the article How to Choose the Right Cloud Backup Provider for Your Business. Here are some highlights: 

Key features to look for in a cloud backup provider 

The cloud backup provider should offer features that align with the customer’s systems and policies. For example: 

• Does the provider support required RTOs and RPS? 

• Does the provider support core systems, e.g., SAP, Windows Server, etc.? 

• Is there strong integration with all major cloud platforms and private cloud architectures? 

• Does the provider integrate with the customer’s preferred backup software, e.g., Veeam 

Understanding pricing models for cloud backup services 

Deciding to work with a cloud provider for backup is almost always the start of a long-term business relationship. Many factors must align for the relationship to work. Cost is one of them. Adopting a cloud or hybrid architecture can be expensive, so it’s a very good idea to get a clear sense of pricing for different services before making a commitment.  

Common fees associated with cloud services include the recurring subscription charges for running virtual machines, which are necessary for backup solutions in the cloud. There are also charges and fees associated with cloud storage, which can quickly rack up unexpected costs. Cloud providers may charge more for higher performing tiers of storage. It’s the customer’s responsibility to figure out the optimal arrangement. It may not make sense to back up low priority data on a high-cost, high-performing tier. A flat fee for all tiers, available with Wasabi, may be a better option.  

Data egress fees are another factor to consider. Some providers charge for moving data out of cloud storage, called egress fees. For customers that have frequent data recovery needs, this can add up. Cloud-to-cloud backups, which involve copying data from one cloud to another, can be costly if there are egress fees. Wasabi does not charge for data egress. 

Best practices for implementing cloud backup 

A number of cloud backup best practices have emerged in recent years. Each organization will have to follow its own path to success, but these practices can facilitate the process. 

Planning your cloud backup strategy for maximum efficiency 

Simplicity and efficiency are two of the most important and underappreciated qualities to create in a cloud backup program. The cloud, especially multi- and hybrid-clouds, are already complex. Backup and recovery should be as streamlined as possible. Realizing this goal may require the use of specialized solutions that enable single-pane-of-glass control and advanced automated workflows. 

It is also wise to follow the “3-2-1 rule.” This rule holds that organizations should keep three copies of their data on two different media, one of which is offsite. In the old days, that meant trucking reels of tape to external warehouses. Today, offsite means the cloud.  

Regular testing and maintenance of backup systems 

A cloud backup that hasn’t been tested is basically useless. Careers have suffered for lack of backup testing. No one wants to say, “Oops! We didn’t test, so sorry about that, but the data is lost…” Don’t be that person. Testing is critical, as is maintenance. Configurations change. There will be patches and other updates that might change how backups work. It’s wise to schedule regular maintenance and reviews to keep up with changes in cloud backup systems. Many cloud providers charge customers for testing their backups, but Wasabi allows you to test backups without incurring charges for bolstering your resiliency plan. 

Challenges and considerations in cloud backup 

Cloud backup comes with its share of challenges. Some relate to the volume and complexity of backed-up data and backup systems. Others come from compliance considerations.  

Navigating data sovereignty and compliance issues 

Compliance can be a major issue with cloud backup. For example, under privacy laws like GDPR, a business must be able to delete a consumer’s data upon request, including data held in backup volumes. A cloud backup solution needs to support this requirement. Data sovereignty is another regulation that can be difficult with cloud backup. Some countries in the EU, for instance, mandate that its citizens’ data not be stored outside of the country, e.g., data about French citizens may not be stored in Germany. The geographic abstraction of the cloud can easily break this rule. The cloud backup solution should inform admins about the country where the cloud data center is located. 

Addressing common concerns about cloud backup security 

Security controls and policies need to extend into cloud backup. The data held in cloud backup volumes might be sensitive or valuable, so it requires strong protection. Admins need to be completely clear on what they are expected to define and manage under the standard “shared responsibility model” of cloud security. In most cases, the customer is responsible for all aspects of data security, including access control, encryption, security monitoring, and so forth.