How do immutable backups work?
Immutable backups are copies of data incorporating features that preserve records so they cannot be deleted or modified for a specific period. The system works by utilizing storage solutions that enforce strict access controls. Once the backup is created, it is protected from changes utilizing:
Write Once Read Many (WORM) technology
Replicate Zmanda backup servers and storage strategically across on-prem and cloud locations to maintain accessibility, enable failover, and meet your RTO and RPO goals.
Immutable cloud backup
Perform DR drills and test your resilience with Zmanda’s restore simulator, allowing for performance and validation testing.
Strict permissions and access controls
Protect your data from change by using Zmanda’s object lock and governance capabilities spanning Zmanda Cloud Storage, S3-compatible storage, and ZFS local storage.
What is the difference between immutable backups and traditional backups?
Many organizations continue to back up data using traditional systems. While they undoubtedly deliver greater flexibility, traditional backups significantly increase the risk of data loss.
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison between traditional backups and immutable data backups.
| Traditional Backups | Immutable Data Backups | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Can be modified or deleted by users with appropriate permissions. | Cannot be altered or deleted for a specified period. |
| Security | Susceptible to risks, including human error and ransomware attacks, which can lead to data loss. | Protected from risks such as ransomware and human error to ensure data integrity. |
| Storage | Can be stored on various media, but the storage location does not necessarily prevent modification. | Stored in the cloud or secure storage locations that enforce immutability. |
| Access Control | User permissions may allow for accidental deletion or modifications of backups. | Backups have strong access controls, making unauthorized changes impossible. |
Having robust, immutable backup solutions in place has clear advantages over relying on traditional backup methods.
5 benefits of immutable data backup
Enhance data resilience by implementing solutions that facilitate speedy, effective backup and restoration processes. Benefits of immutability backup include:
Protection from ransomware
Even if regular backups are targeted, immutable backups remain secure and accessible.
Data integrity
Immutable backups provide a reliable restore point in cases of corruption or loss.
Greater audibility and regulatory compliance
Some industries are governed by regulations that require records to be stored in an unaltered condition over specific periods. Immutable data backup ensures the reliable preservation of historical data.
Reliable disaster recovery
Immutability backups ensure faster recovery time objectives (RTO) and higher recovery point objectives (RPO).
Reductions in human error
Immutability backup software protects your data from accidental modifications or deletions.
Zmanda Pro adds an extra layer of protection with the 3-2-1-1-0 rule
The 3-2-1-1-0 backup rule has long been the gold standard of business recovery plans. The rule states that organizations should:
Make three copies of organizational data.
Use two types of storage.
Use two types of storage.
Immutable data backup from Zmanda Pro takes this tried and tested formula further by adding an additional one and zero:
Create one immutable copy to ensure there is a backup copy that cannot be accidentally altered, affected by malware or deleted in error
Zmanda Pro immutable backup software regularly verifies and checks processes to ensure backups contain zero errors or corruption.
Creating an unchangeable, immutable backup enhances data resilience and ensures speedy disaster recovery times. Critical information is safely protected and can be utilized to facilitate reliable system backups.
Why choose Zmanda Pro for immutable backup solutions?
Zmanda Pro makes it easy to provide high-quality, immutable backup solutions as part of your business recovery plan. We have been providing backup and recovery software to safeguard organizational data since 2005 and continue to stay abreast of developments in the industry. Our focus on open-source technologies and cross-platform support has made us leaders in disaster recovery and backup solutions.
Immunitable backups are an effective tool in our drive to minimize downtime by delivering fast disaster recovery. With features including versatile system integration and compatibility, flexibility, security, and user-friendliness, Zmanda Pro provides the best immutable backup solutions. These features are complimented with exceptional user support — our technical service department is available 24/7.
Our customers make a strong case, hear it from them
"Zmanda’s software and customer support has been great"
Zmanda has spent time helping with any bugs, explaining errors, and adding necessary features so we can continue to transition from our old backup software to Zmanda Enterprise.
Their effort has helped to keep our backups rolling!
Systems Programmer
Research
Enhance your business recovery plan with immutability backups today!
Give your critical data an extra layer of protection by securing immutable backups with Zmanda Pro. We are so confident that our Zmanda Pro is among the best immutable backup solutions available that we offer a free, no-obligation trial. No credit card details are required.
Sign up for a tour to explore our immutability capabilities or try Zmanda Pro for free today!
