and also stored can be further drastically reduced by only transmitting the changed data bits by binary or block level incremental backups. Solutions that transmit only these changed binary data bits do not waste bandwidth by transmitting the same file data over and over again if only small amounts change. Advantages Remote backup has advantages over traditional backup methods: Remote backup does not require user intervention. The user does not have to change tapes, label CDs or perform other manual steps. Unlimited data retention (presuming the backup provider stays in business). Some remote backup services will work continuously, backing up files as they are changed. Most remote backup services will maintain a list of versions of your files. Most remote backup services will use a 128 - 2048 bit encryption to send data over unsecured links (e.g. internet). A few remote backup services can reduce backup by only transmitting changed data. Manage and secure digital data information. Disadvantages Remote backup has some disadvantages over traditional backup methods: Depending on the available network bandwidth, the restoration of data can be slow. Because data is stored offsite, the data must be recovered either via the Internet or via a disk shipped from the online backup service provider. Some backup service providers have no guarantee that stored data will be kept private. It is possible that a remote backup service provider could go out of business or be purchased, which may affect the accessibility of one's data or the cost to continue using the service. If the encryption password is lost, data recovery will be impossible. However, with managed services this should not be a problem. Residential broadband services often have monthly limits that preclude large backups. They are also usually asymmetric; the user-to-network link regularly used to store backups is much slower than the network-to-user link used only when data is restored. In terms of price, when looking at the raw cost of hard disks, remote backups cost about 1-20 times per GB what a local backup would. Managed vs. unmanaged Some services provide expert backup management services as part of the overall offering. These services typically include: Assistance configuring the initial backup Continuous monitoring of the backup processes on the client machines to ensure that backups actually happen Proactive alerting in the event that any backups fail Assistance in restoring and recovering data Scheduled vs. manual vs. event-based backup There are