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Backup gets a boost: Hot Spots

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Continuous data protection
CDP is similar to snapshot technology in that it maintains a record of data at a specific point in time. The difference is that it continuously captures changes to data--resulting in unlimited restore points--which in turn results in near-zero data loss and greater granularity in recovery. When recovery is needed, any previous consistency point can be selected.

CDP technology isn't new, but its integration with backup platforms is a more current development. A few backup vendors have embedded policy options for snapshots at specific intervals, providing built-in, near-CDP functionality. However, other vendors have gone a step further and enabled centralized control and integration between former standalone "true" CDP solutions and the backup platform.

The technology addresses many of the aforementioned optimization challenges, including aggressive RPOs and RTOs, and improved reliability of active system backup. The one drawback is that CDP may consume more storage capacity than snapshots. CDP delivered via the backup platform also provides the advantage of protecting heterogeneous storage devices, topologies, platforms and applications.

ESG research examined the adoption of CDP and found that 53% of respondents will deploy or plan to deploy the technology within 24 months. Two of the primary reasons cited for not using CDP are the cost of

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a new solution and no perceived need for the technology. Other reasons include not being familiar with the technology and a lack of skills for implementing and managing CDP.

This was first published in August 2008

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