Backup vs. Replication
Definition:
Backup involves making a copy or copies of data (folders and files).
Replication is the act of copying and then moving data between a company’s sites (includes the whole VM configuration within).
Requirements:
Backup requires some place to store the information (repository).
Replication requires investment in another infrastructure (destination or remote site) and require the use of Virtual Appliances on both origin and destination host.
Purpose:
Backup focuses on compliance and granular recovery, such as recovering a single user’s file from 5 years ago.
Replication and recovery focus on business continuity – quick and easy resumption of operations after a disaster or corruption.
Uses:
Backup is typically used for everything in the enterprise, from critical production servers to desktops.
Replication is often used for mission-critical applications that must always be up and running.
How it Works:
Backup typically relies on snapshots which are copies of the data set taken at a pre-determined point in time.
Replication enable users to access historic images.
Bottom Line:
Backup is Relatively inexpensive way to avoid data loss. Valuable for compliance. Does not ensure continuity of operations.
Replication is focused on ensuring that business applications and processes are always available, even after a disaster. More expensive to set up and maintain.
