Backups
Backups are the life insurance of digital systems.
For developers: a safety net.
For decision-makers: a must for compliance and crisis readiness.
For teams: the assurance that one mistake isn't the end.
And for us: a given – technically sound, regularly verified.
Why are backups so critical?
Systems fail. Mistakes happen. Data gets lost – due to:
- software bugs or accidental deletion
- ransomware or other attacks
- hardware defects, power outages, or human error
Without a current, working backup, that means: loss, stress, downtime.
A good backup doesn’t just protect data – it protects resilience and trust.
What makes a good backup?
Not every copy is a backup.
Professional backups meet specific criteria:
- Created regularly (e.g., daily or hourly)
- Versioned (snapshots, incremental backups)
- Stored separately (not on the same machine)
- Encrypted – especially for sensitive data
- Automated – not a manual task
- Verified & testable – restoration is what matters
A backup that can’t be restored isn’t a backup – it’s an illusion.
Common backup mistakes
- Never testing the restore process
- Storing backups on the same machine as the system
- Manual processes without monitoring
- Missing encryption or access controls
- Only backing up part of the system
Especially in hybrid setups (databases, containers, volumes), you need a complete backup concept.
How we handle backups at RiKuWe
For us, backups are not an “add-on” – they’re an integral part of the system architecture:
- Systems are backed up automatically – with documented intervals and retention policies
- Backups are encrypted, versioned, and stored offsite
- Restoration is tested regularly – with full logging
- Monitoring detects backup issues immediately
We don’t just ask “What if something goes wrong?” – we build the answer into the system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should backups be done?
That depends on the system. For critical data, we recommend daily or even hourly backups – depending on how frequently data changes.
Where should backups be stored?
Not on the same server as the system. Ideally, offsite, encrypted, and with access controls in place.
How do I verify a backup works?
By performing regular restore tests. A backup is only valid if the system can be fully restored from it.
Are automated backups safe?
Yes – if they are encrypted, monitored, and include alerting for failures. Manual backups are more error-prone.
Which data should be backed up?
Everything relevant for operations, customers, and compliance: databases, configurations, system states – not just user data.
Backup strategies with RiKuWe
Managed hosting with backup architecture
Enterprise-grade infrastructure
