Data Storage Glossary of Terms
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Backup Definitions from Array to Block Data
Array
A method used for storing information on multiple devices. In storage terms 'array' is commonly a collection of hard disk drives in a server arranged in a particular way, that store the same defined data as each other but can have different values.
Asynchronous Replication
After data has been written to the primary storage site, new data can be written to that site, without having to wait for the secondary (remote) storage site to also finish writing data. Asynchronous Replication does not have the latency impact that synchronous replication does, but has the disadvantage of incurring data loss, should the primary site fail before the data has been written to the secondary site.
Backup
Backup is the process of replicating your vital data onto a secondary storage device or off site storage, for the purpose of recovery in case the original data is accidentally erased, damaged, or destroyed.
Backup/Restore
A two step process. Data is first backed up to a secondary storage device i.e. external media such as hardrive, tape, DVD or backed up remotely (Online Storage). In the event of computer problems (such as disk drive failures, power outages, or virus infection) resulting in data loss or damage to the original data, the backed up data is subsequently retrieved and restored to a functional system.
Backup Schedule
Allows backups to occur automatically at a designated time on set days of the week.
Backward compatible
Software or hardware designed to be compatible with earlier versions of the same product.
Backup software
The software used to create your backup data as a precaution against loss or damage of the original data.
Backup storage device
A hardware device used to record and store data.
Backup Window
The time period available or allotted for backing up data.
Bandwidth
In storage terms, bandwidth is the total amount of data that can be transferred at one time between CPU and storage. Generally, bandwidth refers to large block data transfers and is usually measured in MB/sec (Mega Bytes per second).
Bare-metal restore
Bare-metal restore is a form of data recovery which allows users to restore a system from "bare metal", i.e. without any requirements as to previously installed software or operating system.
Block Data
Raw data which does not have a file structure imposed on it. Database applications such as Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Exchange Server transfer data in blocks. Block transfer is the most efficient way to write to disk.
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