Data Backup Digest

Microsoft Azure has enjoyed its reputation as one of the leading cloud computing platforms ever since its inception in 2010. While the architecture offers plenty of cloud-based services and options to its customers, cloud backup functionality has certainly been lacking. At least, it was until their latest announcement, which adds the ability to archive data into the cloud from machines running Windows 7, Windows 8 and the recently introduced Windows 10. As such, users of Microsoft Azure will enjoy increased data protection as well as the ability to restore their files to nearly any machine.

Giridhar Mosay, program manager of the Cloud + Enterprise division with Microsoft Azure, prefaced the initial announcement by saying: “This release opens up new scenarios for Azure Backup by enabling customers to back up their on-premises files and folders directly to Azure. Once the initial backup copy is completed, Azure Backup tracks the changes to the backed up files and efficiently transfers only the changed content over HTTPS.”

Primary Features

The new Azure Backup service boasts a number of primary features. This includes granular backup of both files and folders, transfer of incremental backup copies, and customizable backup scheduling. Moreover, customer data that is transferred through Azure Backup is encrypted before it even leaves your machine and enters the network, thereby safeguarding critical data from prying eyes. Azure Backup also lets customers retain their backup data for nearly 99 years.

Furthermore, Azure Backup bolsters backup speeds by allowing users to connect to one of 17 different regional hubs. Located in strategic spots around the globe, customers are able to choose the location that is nearest to them.

Getting Started

Getting started with Azure Backup is an incredibly simple and straightforward process. To do begin, simply login to the Azure Portal and select Recovery Services from the list on the left side of the screen. You’ll be given the option to name the vault whatever you wish, and you’ll also be given the chance to select your preferred region before continuing.

Once it has been created, select the new Backup Vault through the Quick Start page. You’ll also be given detailed instructions for downloading your vault credentials, which service as an authentication file during the server registration process, as well as the agent. There are two different versions of the agent, depending on your exact version of Windows.

After your vault credentials and agent have been downloaded, you can proceed with the installation process. To ensure optimal performance, Microsoft recommends you have at least 10% of Cache / Scratch space available on your drive.

Windows will guide you through the rest of the process from this point, which consists of entering proxy information, downloading critical updates, scanning for required software, selecting or generating a unique passphrase and registration of the servers.

The only thing that is left to do is to configure your own backup policy, which is done by selecting which items need to be backed up as well as how often they need to be archived. Next, simply set the schedule and let the automation take over.