How To Create a Backup of Your Dedicated Server

What would happen if your server failed unexpectedly? Would your data survive?

Backups are vital for businesses relying on dedicated servers. A recent Global Market Report highlights that 93% of businesses1 that lose essential data without a backup will close within a year if it is not recovered within ten days. This demonstrates how crucial it is to safeguard data.

Our experts emphasize the importance of protecting data from risks such as hardware failures, cyberattacks, or accidental deletions. Reliable backups ensure smooth recovery while maintaining continuity. You can protect your files, reputation, and operations by creating regular backups.

A structured backup plan keeps your environment resilient for security or peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create one that’s secure, efficient, and tailored to your needs.

Why Create a Backup of Dedicated Servers?

Losing data can disrupt everything. Servers hold critical files, databases, and configurations. Without backups, recovery becomes difficult and costly.

Our experts stress that backups protect your business from hardware failures, cyberattacks, or accidental deletions. A reliable backup ensures you can restore files quickly during emergencies, reducing downtime and limiting disruptions.

In May 2017, WannaCry ransomware exploited a Windows flaw, infecting 230,000+ computers globally. A London engineering firm lost three years of data due to failed backups. Recreation costs exceeded £270,000. Cyber insurance covered the loss, emphasizing the need for robust security and backups.

Servers without backups put your operations at risk. Recovery plans built on backups improve security. You maintain continuity by safeguarding data.

Disaster recovery relies on accessible backups. Stored copies allow smooth restoration after unexpected issues. Protecting your servers ensures business continuity and keeps sensitive information secure.

Key Takeaways

• Always backup your server to protect data from unexpected failures.
• Schedule backups regularly to reduce the risks of losing critical information.
• Store backups off-site to safeguard data from physical disasters.
• Encrypt backups to prevent unauthorized access and ensure compliance.
• Test backups frequently to confirm they work and can be restored quickly.
• Monitor backup processes to detect issues and maintain reliability.
• Update tools and strategies to adapt to changing data and security needs.
• Use a mix of local and remote backups for added redundancy.
• Include all essential files and configurations in your backup plan.
• Keep encryption keys secure to protect sensitive information.

4 Ways to Create a Backup of Dedicated Servers

Backing up a dedicated server ensures your data remains safe and accessible. Various methods offer tailored solutions based on your needs.

The global Data Backup and Recovery market was valued at $11.1 billion in 2023. It is projected to reach $17.0 billion by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 7.3%. This growth reflects the rising demand for effective solutions.

Let’s explore how different types of backups work and what their role is in protecting your server.

1. Application Backup

This backup type targets individual applications instead of the entire server. Tools like cPanel or Plesk include built-in options for creating and restoring these backups. They allow you to save configurations, website files, or database entries directly from the control panel.

Key Features:

• Selective Backup: Back up only the data tied to specific software.
• Ease of Use: Most application backups require minimal setup effort.
• Fast Recovery: Restore quickly without needing to reconfigure the entire server.

Benefits

• Ideal for smaller-scale servers.
• Supports frequent updates for high-priority software.
• Prevents unnecessary duplication of unrelated data.

Tools and Process

1. Using cPanel:
   • Navigate to the “Backup” option in your cPanel dashboard.
   • Select “Partial Backup” to save files or databases separately.
   • Download the backup to secure it locally or transfer it to a remote location.
2. Plesk Backup Manager:
   • Access the Backup Manager in Plesk’s interface.
   • Schedule regular backups for your website or databases.
   • Encrypt files to ensure security during transit or storage.

When to Use Application Backups

• Regularly updated software requiring frequent saves.
• Scenarios where restoring specific components is faster than a full restore.
• Systems running multiple independent applications needing separate backup schedules.

Application backups deliver precision. You secure critical files while optimizing storage and recovery time. Properly configuring these tools ensures your data remains protected and ready for restoration when needed.

2. RAID Backup

RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) ensures data availability by combining multiple drives. 

RAID configurations store data across several disks, protecting against hardware failures. Mirroring or distributing data maintains server functionality even if one drive fails. While RAID is not a true backup, it is critical for redundancy and recovery.

Key Features:

• Data Redundancy: Ensures files remain accessible during hardware issues.
• Performance Boost: Certain RAID levels improve read/write speeds.
• Disk Recovery: Failed drives can be replaced without shutting down operations.

RAID Configurations

1. RAID 1 (Mirroring):
   • Copies identical data across two drives.
   • If one fails, the other holds an exact replica.
   • Benefits: Simple setup, great for small setups needing redundancy.
2. RAID 5 (Striping with Parity):
   • Splits data across multiple drives with one storing parity information.
   • Parity allows recovery of data if a single disk fails.
   • Benefits: Balances storage efficiency, redundancy, and speed.
3. RAID 10 (Mirroring + Striping):
   • Combines RAID 1 and RAID 0 for maximum redundancy and speed.
   • Requires at least four drives to implement.
   • Benefits: High reliability and improved performance for larger systems.

Setting Up RAID Backup

Hardware RAID:

• Managed by a dedicated RAID controller.
• Offers better performance but increases hardware costs.

Software RAID:

• Configured through the server’s operating system (e.g., Linux MDADM).
• Cost-effective but may reduce server speed slightly.

Steps to Configure RAID:

1. Select the RAID Level:
   • Assess your data redundancy and performance needs.
   • Choose based on system requirements (e.g., RAID 1 for critical files, RAID 5 for mixed workloads).
2. Install RAID Controller:
   • Use a physical controller for hardware setups.
   • For software RAID, configure the RAID setup through the OS.
3. Prepare the Drives:
   • Add compatible drives with matching capacities.
   • Initialize them in the RAID configuration tool.
4. Verify Setup:
   • Test redundancy by simulating a drive failure.
   • Monitor rebuild speed and ensure no data loss.

Limitations of RAID

RAID reduces downtime but does not replace backups. Even accidental deletions or server failures can lead to data loss. RAID should always be paired with off-site or cloud backups for comprehensive protection.

When to Use RAID

• Systems requiring constant uptime.
• Scenarios where minimizing downtime is essential.
• Workloads needing faster access to frequently used files.

RAID backup ensures reliability through redundancy and boosts performance in demanding environments. Combining with other backup solutions creates a robust data protection strategy.

3. Off-Site Backup

Storing backups off-site protects data from local failures. It ensures recovery after disasters like fires, floods, or hardware failures. 

Off-site backups involve copying data to a remote server or storage location. Separating backup locations from the primary server reduces risks tied to localized disruptions. Solutions like cloud storage, dedicated backup servers, and data centers are widely used.

Key Features:

• Disaster Recovery: Ensures recovery even after a complete server failure.
• Accessibility: Backups can be restored from anywhere with internet access.
• Scalability: Suitable for businesses of all sizes, with expandable storage.

Reliable Off-Site Solutions

1. Cloud-Based Storage:
   • Services like Amazon S3, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure offer secure storage.
   • Data is encrypted during transfer and at rest.
   • Benefit: Ideal for businesses needing flexible and scalable backup options.
2. Dedicated Backup Servers:
   • Backup data to a separate server located in another data center.
   • Configurable with automated tools like rsync or Acronis.
   • Benefit: Offers complete control over the backup environment.
3. Third-Party Backup Services:
   • Providers like Backblaze and Carbonite specialize in secure off-site backups.
   • Simplified setup with minimal maintenance required.
   • Benefit: Reliable solution for non-technical users.

Steps for Setting Up Off-Site Backups

1. Choose a Backup Destination:
   • Select a provider or remote server based on security, pricing, and reliability.
2. Automate Backups:
   • Use tools like rsync or cron jobs for regular transfers.
   • Ensure backups are encrypted before upload.
3. Test Backup Restoration:
   • Verify that files are accessible and intact.
   • Regularly perform restoration tests to avoid surprises during emergencies.

When to Use Off-Site Backups

• Businesses prioritizing disaster recovery.
• Systems requiring geographically diverse backups for compliance.
• Scenarios needing high reliability and remote access to data.

4. R1Soft Backup

R1Soft is a software company that delivers robust and efficient backup solutions tailored for dedicated servers. It simplifies disaster recovery while minimizing server load.

Overview

R1Soft captures data at the disk level, bypassing the operating system. This approach ensures faster and more accurate backups compared to traditional methods.

Key Features:

• Incremental Backups: Captures only changes made since the last backup.
• Bare-Metal Recovery: Restores entire servers, including operating systems, files, and configurations.
• Database Support: Works seamlessly with MySQL and other popular database engines.

Benefits

• Low Server Impact: Backups occur with minimal performance disruption.
• Custom Retention Policies: Define how long backups are stored.
• Fast Recovery: Restore specific files or the entire system in minutes.

Setting Up R1Soft Backups

1. Install the R1Soft Agent:
   • Add the software agent to the server needing backup.
   • Configure access credentials and connect it to the R1Soft server.
2. Define Backup Policies:
   • Schedule incremental backups based on data sensitivity.
   • Configure retention periods to optimize storage usage.
3. Run Initial Full Backup:
   • Capture a complete image of the server to serve as the baseline.
4. Monitor and Test:
   • Use the dashboard to track backup status.
   • Regularly test restores to ensure reliability.

When to Use R1Soft Backups

• Dedicated server environments with high-performance requirements.
• Businesses need detailed retention policies.
• Systems requiring reliable disaster recovery solutions.

Both off-site and R1Soft backups provide dependable options. Together, they create a robust strategy for protecting critical data.

The 2017 Equifax data breach showed the dangers of unprotected systems and poor certificate management. Attackers exposed data from 145 million people due to oversight. Reliable backups play a critical role in such scenarios. 

They help you recover lost information and reduce risks quickly. Proper backup systems protect your business, ensure compliance, and safeguard against severe consequences during security incidents.

Best Practices for Dedicated Server Backups

Protecting your server with backups demands strategic planning and disciplined execution. Following established best practices ensures data remains safe, accessible, and recoverable when needed.

1. Regular Backup Schedules

Scheduling backups consistently is vital to prevent data loss. Data changes frequently, and delays between backups can increase risks. Creating a structured schedule minimizes the chance of losing critical information.

Key Aspects:

• Frequency: Tailor intervals based on how often your data changes. For dynamic environments like e-commerce, daily backups are essential. Less frequent updates may allow for weekly schedules.
• Automation: Configure automated tools to handle backups without manual intervention. This approach reduces human error and ensures consistency. Tools like cron jobs or cPanel’s backup scheduler simplify the process.
• Versioning: Maintain multiple backup versions to guard against accidental deletions or corruption in recent files. Older backups provide an added layer of protection.

Implementation Tips:

• Use incremental backups for efficiency. This method captures only changes since the last backup, saving time and disk space.
• Regularly monitor logs to verify successful execution. Incomplete backups create a false sense of security.

2. Off-Site Storage

Storing backups on-site alone exposes you to risks from physical disasters. Fires, floods, or hardware failures can render both primary and local backups inaccessible. Off-site storage mitigates these threats by ensuring geographical separation.

Key Aspects:

• Remote Replication: Utilize tools like rsync to synchronize backups with a secondary location. This can be another data center or a cloud storage solution.
• Data Encryption: Encrypt files before transferring them off-site to protect sensitive information. This is especially critical for compliance with regulations like GDPR.
• Redundancy: Implement a hybrid strategy combining local and off-site backups. This approach enhances reliability and recovery speed.

Implementation Tips:

• Integrate off-site storage with cloud providers like Amazon S3 or Microsoft Azure for scalable and secure solutions.
• Use encrypted connections (e.g., SSH or VPN) during transfers to safeguard data integrity.
• Perform routine restoration tests from remote locations to confirm availability and speed.

3. Data Encryption

Encrypting backups ensures your data remains secure during storage and transit. It protects sensitive information from unauthorized access, fulfilling both security needs and regulatory compliance requirements.

Why Encryption Matters

Encryption transforms readable data into coded text. This process ensures that only authorized parties can decrypt and access the information. For backups, encryption is vital for protecting customer details, business files, and system configurations.

Key Features:

• Data Security: Prevents breaches and ensures only authorized personnel access stored backups.
• Regulatory Compliance: Meets industry standards like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS for handling sensitive information.
• Integrity Protection: Guards against tampering during transfers or storage.

Implementation Tips:

1. Choose Strong Algorithms: Use advanced standards like AES-256 for robust encryption.
2. Encrypt Before Transfer: Protect backups locally before moving them to off-site locations. Tools like OpenSSL simplify this process.
3. Secure Encryption Keys: Store encryption keys separately and securely. Unauthorized access to keys compromises the entire system.

4. Test Your Backups

Testing backups ensures they remain usable and reliable. A backup that fails during restoration is as good as no backup at all.

Why Testing Is Crucial

Regular tests confirm data integrity and uncover potential issues. By verifying restoration processes, you can trust your backups during emergencies.

Key Features:

• Integrity Validation: Detects incomplete or corrupted backups.
• Recovery Speed: Measures how quickly data can be restored.
• Operational Assurance: Confirms that essential files and configurations are included.

Implementation Tips:

1. Schedule Tests Regularly: Test monthly or after significant system updates.
2. Simulate Real Scenarios: To mimic real emergencies, perform full restorations in sandbox environments.
3. Review Backup Logs: Use logs to identify errors or incomplete backups. Resolve issues promptly.

5. Monitor and Update

Backup strategies require constant monitoring and updates. Without these, they may fail to keep up with evolving threats and growing data.

Why Monitoring Matters

Monitoring helps identify anomalies in backup processes. Updating ensures tools and configurations remain effective over time.

Key Features:

• Anomaly Detection: Spots unusual activity or errors during backups.
• Configuration Optimization: Keeps systems efficient and scalable.
• Threat Mitigation: Adapts to new risks with updated tools and practices.

Implementation Tips:

1. Use Monitoring Tools: Solutions like Nagios or Grafana can track performance and errors in real-time.
2. Update Software Frequently: Ensure backup tools and encryption algorithms are current.
3. Review Policies Annually: Assess and adjust strategies to align with changes in data volume and compliance requirements.

Mailchimp faced three data breaches due to social engineering in 2022 and 2023. Hackers tricked an employee into revealing login details, compromising 133 user accounts, including WooCommerce and Solana Foundation. Weak security measures and lack of training made the attack possible. Stronger cybersecurity training, 2FA, and identity management could have prevented it. Regular backups and continuous dedicated backup server monitoring can also help during major damage by allowing quick data recovery and detecting unauthorized access early.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I back up my dedicated server?

Backup frequency depends on your data. Critical systems, like e-commerce, need daily backups. For less active environments, weekly backups may work. Automating this process ensures consistency. Schedule backups during low-traffic periods to minimize disruption. Always include incremental backups between full backups to capture recent changes while saving disk space.

Can backups slow down server performance?

Yes, backups can impact performance, especially on resource-heavy servers. High disk usage or network transfers during backups may cause temporary slowdowns. To optimize, schedule backups during off-peak hours. Use incremental backups instead of full backups daily. Dedicated backup software like R1Soft minimizes server load and ensures smooth operations without significantly affecting performance.

How do I restore data from a dedicated server backup?

Restoring requires access to your backup tool. Locate the required backup file in your storage. Use the control panel or a backup tool like Acronis to select files or a full image. Begin the restore process, ensuring compatibility with the target hardware. Verify restored data for accuracy. Perform tests to confirm functionality before going live.