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2 Minute Tech - Snapshot-Based Backup: What You Need to Know

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Snapshot-based backup technology is quickly becoming a popular and highly effective data storage method. While the concept isn't necessarily new-Microsoft introduced Volume Shadow Copy technology with Windows XP nearly 10 years ago-its capabilities have been refined and its grown increasingly useful over the past decade. Numerous observers now see it as a viable alternative to tape- or disk-based systems.

How does snapshot technology work? Can it work for you? Here's a brief overview

Snapshots defined
The Storage Networking Industry Association defines a snapshot as a point in time copy of a defined collection of data. The key difference between a snapshot and a copy: Unlike a physical copy, a snapshot is virtual-it offers a static view of your data. That's the simple version. This Infoworld piece (note: free registration required) offers more detail on the various types of snapshots.

Pros and cons
What are some of pros and cons of snapshots? They offer the potential for lightning-fast restores and multiple ways to perform data restores. They also don't require any space when they're created (although they will grow over time). This Backup Central blog post offers a balanced look at some of the advantages.

On the other hand, snapshots are essentially reference points, and not full files. As this Toolbox.com article notes, they offer a picture of how your data looked at a particular point in time. Depending on the system, individual file recovery can be challenging. And they have the potential to gobble up space if not managed correctly; see this SearchDataBackup.com article (note: free registration required) for more on that.

What's next?
Where is snapshot-based backup headed? This Network Computing blog post makes a strong case for continued integration with the cloud. The technologies involved with snapshots are also continuing to improve. This Productive Corporation product comparison video provides a detailed breakdown and comparison of products from ARCserve and Acronis. And products such as Symantec Data Recovery Software now integrate with a variety of snapshot methods.

Find out more
Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and the snapshot landscape will continue to evolve. For more information on snapshot technology and how to make it work for your unique needs, contact Productive Corporation: