File Archiving

File Archiving

File archiving (also known as backup) is basically offline storage that is primarily geared to creating duplicate copies of online files. These backup copies serve as insurance against minor or major system failures by creating a redundant copy of important system and data files.

Generally, network administrators enable file archiving from a centralized location. A single site, for example, can back up all the servers on a network. Many current backup systems also offer the capability to back up various client workstations, making it feasible to archive all files on the network to a central facility, whether the files are located on network servers or clients. This archive then is stored in a safe location, and a duplicate often is made and placed off the premises in case of disaster.