Backup to FTP: convenient and secure FTP backup

A backup to FTP is a good way of securing a small set of important files. The remoteness of the server, and file encryption grant a high level of security, which can not be granted by other backup media.

Before a backup to an FTP server, one has to define the amount of data he needs to backup. Since the bandwidth is not free, it should be the files one can not live without.

Secondly, one has to select a reliable FTP backup service provider. It should have a good reputation and a number of positive testimonials from customers. Good pricing is a benefit, not a main principle.

Thirdly, a backup type is to be defined. It is highly recommended to use incremental or differential backup, as this will only backup changed files to the FTP server. The first backup will always be a full backup.

Next, most likely the data needs to be compressed and encrypted. This, in turn, saved bandwidth and grants higher security, respectively.

Then, one just needs to copy the files to the FTP server. When using an FTP backup program, this process is semi-automated - one just needs to select the corresponding options.

After the backup has been run, it is important to check that the files are indeed on the server. A test restore of a single file should show whether the backup files have been written correctly.