Backup: Google Case

Today, we will analyze a profile topic based on a Google Tech Talks case , shared by one of the company's engineers, and High Scalability magazine analyzed the story of an IT specialist from Google.


/ Photo Windell Oskay / CC

Based on the video of the speech and the post of expert, we have compiled a checklist:
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• The speed of data recovery depends on the simplicity of the backup organization.
• Data storage cannot be scaled linearly - more disks and employees are not a solution - automation is needed
• To achieve the required level of data availability, you need to diversify points of failure.
• Only continuous testing can ensure the stable operation of data recovery systems.
• The speed of data recovery depends on the simplicity of the backup organization.
• Data storage cannot be scaled linearly - more disks and employees are not a solution - automation is needed
• To achieve the required level of data availability, it is necessary to diversify points of failure, but redundancy alone does not guarantee work without any data loss and failures.
• The main cause of the problems is service level errors, and not any malfunctions caused by weather conditions. Only data testing can ensure the stable operation of data recovery systems.
• One way or another, there is no need to forget about the impact on the physical layer - here it is worth considering RAID technologies (for example, Google uses GFS, the analog of RAID), which allow you to work with geographically distributed data storage.
• Tape copying is a good alternative for backups and a valid way to increase diversification (this tool is also used by Google)
• Monitoring the situation helps to determine the level of a potential problem and respond adequately. Sometimes the human factor should be excluded from the recovery process.
• The efficiency of the data storage system depends on your willingness to compromise and take into account a number of factors, including economic
• When recovering data, it is important to pay attention to how they are used - it may be worthwhile to start with data recovery of current customers who are most actively working with the system.
• With the growth of your company and as you add new products, not only does the company's capitalization grow, but the level of responsibility to customers grows as well.