What are immutable backups?
An immutable backup is a locked copy of your data. No one can change it or delete it. SIMPANIX Pro lets you make locked backups and choose your own settings. They protect you from deletion, changes and ransomware, so you can recover fast after a disaster.
How do immutable backups work?
An immutable backup is locked for a set time. During that time, no one can change or delete it. The storage itself enforces strict access rules. Once a backup is made, it is protected by:
Write Once, Read Many (WORM)
Data is written once and can then only be read. It cannot be changed or deleted until the lock ends.
Locked cloud backup
SIMPANIX uses Object Lock on SIMPANIX Cloud Storage and S3-compatible clouds. Your backups stay locked in the cloud.
Strict access rules
Only approved users can manage backups. SIMPANIX locks data in SIMPANIX Cloud Storage, S3-compatible storage and local ZFS storage.
Immutable vs. normal backups
Many companies still use normal backups. They are flexible, but they carry more risk of data loss.
The table compares normal backups and immutable backups.
| Feature | Normal backups | Immutable backups |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Users with the right access can change or delete them. | No one can change or delete them for a set time. |
| Security | At risk from human mistakes and ransomware. Data can be lost. | Safe from ransomware and human mistakes. Data stays correct. |
| Storage | Can be on many types of media, but the media does not stop changes. | Kept in the cloud or in safe storage that enforces the lock. |
| Access | Users may delete or change backups by mistake. | Strong access rules. No unapproved changes are possible. |
Locked backups are much safer than normal backups.
5 benefits of immutable backups
Locked backups make backup and restore fast and reliable. Benefits include:
Protection from ransomware
Even if attackers go after your backups, locked backups stay safe and ready.
Data integrity
Locked backups give you a reliable restore point if data is damaged or lost.
Easier audits and compliance
Some industries must keep records unchanged for a set time. Locked backups keep old data exactly as it was.
Reliable disaster recovery
Recover faster and lose less data.
Fewer human mistakes
No one can change or delete your data by accident.
SIMPANIX Pro adds more protection with the 3-2-1-1-0 rule
The 3-2-1 rule has long been the standard for backup. SIMPANIX Pro adds an extra 1 and a 0, for stronger protection and faster recovery.
3 copies of your data
Keep three copies of your data.
2 types of storage
Store them on two types of media.
1 copy offsite
Keep one copy in another place.
+1 locked copy
Added by SIMPANIX Pro: a copy that no one can change, malware cannot touch, and no one can delete by mistake.
+0 errors
Added by SIMPANIX Pro: regular checks make sure backups have no errors or damage.
Why choose SIMPANIX Pro for locked backups?
SIMPANIX Pro makes it easy to add strong locked backups to your recovery plan. Less downtime, faster recovery.
More than 10 years of experience
Backup software that keeps up with the industry.
Open source and cross-platform
We focus on open source and support for many systems.
Works with your systems
Works with many systems and fits your setup.
Secure and easy to use
Strong security that is easy to use.
24/7 technical support
Our support team is here day and night.