Scheduled Storage-Device Switching for Secure Data Backup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backup systems are inadequate in ensuring robust data protection and rapid restoration, particularly in scenarios where not all storage devices are connected to the computer system, and there is a risk of data manipulation or loss due to cyber-attacks or user errors.
Innovation Solution
A backup system utilizing a control module to alternate connection of multiple storage devices according to a predetermined schedule, ensuring only one device is connected at a time, with additional emergency storage for critical restoration needs, and incorporating data processing and encryption for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple storage devices are connected to the computer system simultaneously, then data backup capacity and redundancy are improved, but the risk of data manipulation or loss due to cyber-attacks or user errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the storage devices into separate groups: active backup devices that are connected and inactive emergency devices that remain disconnected. This segmentation isolates the emergency storage devices from potential cyber-attacks or user manipulation while maintaining their availability for restoration purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary backup actions to inactive emergency storage devices before they are needed. These devices are prepared in advance with encrypted backup data, so when restoration is needed, the data is already available and secured, eliminating the need to connect vulnerable devices during critical operations.
2Speed
If all storage devices remain connected to the computer system, then restoration speed is improved, but network traffic and personnel resources required for management increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary backup operations to multiple storage devices in advance, so when restoration is needed, the data is already prepared and available. This eliminates the need for time-consuming data transfer during restoration events, achieving fast restoration without requiring continuous device connectivity or excessive network resources.
3Reliability
If storage devices are alternated according to a predetermined schedule, then device connectivity security is improved, but backup operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by automatically alternating between active and inactive storage devices according to a predetermined schedule. This periodic switching ensures that emergency devices remain disconnected for security while maintaining a predictable, automated rotation pattern that reduces operational complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup system performs self-service through automated scheduling and device alternation. The control module automatically manages which devices are active or inactive based on the predetermined schedule, eliminating the need for manual intervention and reducing operational complexity while maintaining security.
Data Source
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AI summary
A backup system for backing up data on a computer system, comprising: a plurality of storage devices, the storage devices can be of any type known in the 5 industry such as USB, SATA, SD etc. Storage devices may be built in the device or external devices. The same system may have storage devices that are of the same type (all internal or all external) or a mixture (some internal some external). One or more connector for connecting the plurality of storage devices to the computer system. The storage devices may each have a unique connector (wired or wireless) to the computer 10 system or alternatively, one connector can be connected each time to another storage device. The system also comprises a control module for controlling the connection between the plurality of storage devices to said computer system such that at any given time at least one but not all storage devices are connected to the computer system. The control module selects the storage device or devices to be connected to the computer system according to a predetermined schedule.