Given the ever-evolving cyber threats and unpredictable disasters, it has become crucial for organizations to safeguard their data. In fact, according to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, by 2025, cyberattacks are expected to cost the organization $10.5 trillion annually. But fret not! Air-gap backup solution is the answer.
But what exactly are air-gap backup solutions, and how do they work? And what are the different types of air-gap backup solutions? Well, scroll down to find out!
Definition of Air-Gap Backups
Air-gap backup solutions, in simple terms, create copies of your data that are physically and logically disconnected from your primary networks. The isolated environment creates a barrier and shields your backups from malware, ransomware, or disasters that could affect the connected systems in your organization.
How Air-Gap Backups Work
The implementation of air-gap backups takes various forms depending on the organization. For instance:
- Air-gap backup solutions can be as simple as storing data on removable media that sits offline until needed.
- Alternatively, air-gap backups could involve sophisticated network configurations that isolate backup servers and come with strict access controls.
The key principle is that air gapped backups are unreachable by any unauthorized means in your organization. This disconnection is what makes air-gap solutions so valuable.
Types of Air-Gap Backups (Physical and Logical)
- Physical Air-Gap:
This involves storing backups on offline media like tapes, external hard drives, or optical disks. These are physically removed and often kept in secure locations to provide a safeguard in time of need.
- Logical Air-Gap:
There is also a logical separation in air-gap solutions. This is achieved through software and network configurations. The backup data is stored on servers or cloud environments that are isolated from the main network. You can use means like restricted access, firewalls, or specialized security protocols to ensure isolation.
Why Air Gap Backups Are Vital for Data Security
Protection Against Ransomware
Ransomware attacks will encrypt data and demand payment for the release of the data. And that’s where Air-gap backups act as a shield against this threat.
The design of the Air-gap backup keeps their physical or logical isolation and makes them immune to encryption. This ensures a clean copy of data that is always available for restoration. In turn, this architecture will allow you to minimize downtime and avoid financial losses. More importantly, you can refuse any ransom demands.
Immunity to Cyberattacks and Malware
Air-gap backup will offer a sanctuary from various cyber threats that are known to exploit network vulnerabilities. The architecture of Air-gap backups is designed to work offline, and this offline nature renders them inaccessible to malware and potential attacks.
The key benefits of this design include:
- Prevention of data corruption
- Protection against unauthorized access or deletion
- Overall safeguarding of backup data integrity
Disaster Recovery and Data Integrity
Disasters, whether it is natural or human-caused (software bugs, hardware failure) can wipe out primary data and connected backups. However, Air-gap backups are often stored offsite and provide resilience in such scenarios. And this design guarantees that a reliable, uncorrupted copy of data exists for recovery, even if the entire data centers are compromised. What all these means is:
- Minimized business disruption
- Protection of critical information assets
- Upholding an organization’s long-term viability
How to Implement Air-Gap Backup Solutions
Learn About the Best Practices for Air-Gap Backup Creation
- Define Critical Data: You will have to identify the most essential data which requires the highest level of protection.
- Choose the Right Air-Gap Method: You will have to determine whether physical (tapes, removable disks) or logical (network-isolated storage) air-gapping will best suit your needs.
- Strict Access Controls: You will have to limit physical or network access to air-gap backups and limit it to authorized personnel only.
- Encryption: You will also have to consider encryption for added security, even within the isolated Air-gap environment.
What Are the Available Options for Air-Gap Storage (Tapes, Disks, Cloud)
- Tapes: These are durable, cost-effective for long-term archival. But these also have slower recovery times.
- Removable Disks: This type of air-gap backup design is made for faster recovery. However, it requires careful handling and physical security.
- Cloud-Based Air-Gap: This type of air-gap backup solutions offers scalability, offsite storage. Then again, it necessitates thorough scrutiny of the provider’s security measures.
Frequency and Testing of Air-Gap Backups
There is also regular testing that comes when you consider an Air-gap backup solution in your organization. For instance:
- Regular Backups: You will have to establish a schedule based on data importance and rate of change.
- Rigorous Testing: You will have to periodically simulate data restoration from air-gap backups to verify integrity and functionality.
- Update Procedures: You will have to revisit backup and testing plans as systems and threats evolve.
The Challenges and Considerations for Air-Gap Backups
Air-gap solutions require additional investments. Additionally, there is complexity in managing the offline backups that add operational overheads. Here are some challenges to consider:
1. Cost and Management Overhead
- Specialized Hardware/Software: Air-gap solutions will require additional investments, so you will have to set aside a budget both for short and long-term.
- Increased Complexity: You will have to manage the offline backups, which will add operational overhead.
- Staff Training: You will have to ensure personnel that are well-versed in air-gap procedures. This is very crucial.
2. Potential Vulnerabilities
- Physical Security: Theft or damage to air-gapped media will pose a risk.
- Insider Threats: You will have to mitigate insider threats, which requires strong access controls and awareness.
- Human Error: There can be mistakes during handling or procedures can compromise isolation — so, you will have to be weary.
3. Balancing Security and Accessibility
- Recovery Time: Restoring from air-gapped backups is slower than connected backups.
- Data Updates: You will have to implement regular updates to air-gapped backups, which can be logistically challenging.
- Finding the Right Balance: You will have to carefully determine the acceptable risk levels vs. recovery speed needs.
Conclusion
If you value your data and want peace of mind, there is no technology that is better than air-gap. The investment in this powerful safeguard — air-gap backups — might be the best decision that you make for the security of your digital assets.