In this article, we compare the most common ransomware-proof backup solutions based on cost, process and user-friendliness - so that you can find the right security strategy for your company.
Why Traditional Backups Aren’t Enough
Many companies rely on daily backups. However, conventional solutions reach their limits when attackers specifically encrypt or manipulate backup files. An effective backup concept against ransomware must therefore go beyond the standards - keyword: air-gapped and immutable backups.
The CIA Triad: Foundations of Backup Security
An effective backup concept is based on three pillars of information security:
- Confidentiality:
Only authorized persons have access to data. - Integrity:
Data must not be changed or deleted unnoticed. - Availability:
Data must be quickly accessible when required.
Integrity is particularly crucial for ransomware-resistant backups - in other words, ensuring that backup data cannot be subsequently changed.
Proactive Ransomware Defense: What Works
The following precautions are crucial for protection against ransomware:
- Air-gapped or unchangeable backup strategies
- Regular training of employees
- Recovery tests
- Clearly documented emergency plan
Comparing the Leading Backup Strategies
To choose the right ransomware-proof backup strategy, it’s worth taking a closer look at the most common types. Below, we compare proven backup methods based on security, efficiency, and practical use cases.
Unchangeable Backups
Definition:
Backups that are protected from being modified or deleted for a defined retention period.
Advantages:
- Prevents tampering by ransomware or other malware
- Supports regulatory compliance
- Enables reliable recovery after an attack
Disadvantages:
- Higher storage requirements
- Complex storage management
Ideal for:
- Finance and healthcare
- Companies with high compliance requirements
Air-Gapped Backups
Definition:
Backup systems physically or logically isolated from primary networks.
Advantages:
- Highest level of protection from external threats
- Offline storage prevents direct access by ransomware
Disadvantages:
- Manual recovery processes can delay response times
- Needs dedicated, secure storage environments
Ideal for:
- Critical infrastructures
- Authorities and security-sensitive companies
Cloud Backup with Ransomware Detection
Definition:
Cloud backups with built-in ransomware monitoring and detection.
Advantages:
- Scales easily and requires minimal maintenance
- Enables fast data recovery in case of attack
Disadvantages:
- Requires stable internet connectivity
- May raise data privacy concerns depending on the provider
Ideal for:
- SMEs with limited IT infrastructure
- Companies with a cloud-first strategy
Local (On-Premises) Backups
Definition:
Backups stored on internal company hardware or infrastructure.
Advantages:
- Complete control over your data
- No reliance on external cloud services
Disadvantages:
- Requires ongoing hardware investment and maintenance
- Vulnerable to local disasters or on-site failures
Ideal for:
- Companies with high data protection requirements
- Companies without cloud access
Hybrid Backup-Solutions
Definition:
Combines both on-premises and cloud-based backups for greater flexibility.
Advantages:
- Provides excellent redundancy across systems
- Strikes a balance between data control and availability
Disadvantages:
- Requires more complex management and coordination
- May result in higher infrastructure and licensing costs
Ideal for:
- Medium-sized and large companies with individual requirements
Quick Comparison of Backup Types
The following table summarizes the key features of the backup strategies discussed above — ideal for a quick side-by-side comparison.
| Backup type | Ransomware resistance | Recovery speed | Costs | Complexity | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unchangeable | High | Fast | Medium | Medium | Compliance & Critical Infrastructure |
| Air-Gapped | Very high | Slow | High | High | High security areas |
| Cloud | High | Fast | Variable | Low | Scalable businesses or Growth-oriented companies |
| Local | Medium | Fast | High | Medium | Data protection-sensitive industries |
| Hybrid | Very high | Fast | High | High | Companies with redundancy requirements |
Conclusion: Why Air-Gapped Backups Matter Most
Air-gapped backups are one of the most effective measures in the fight against ransomware. In combination with immutable storage and a clear emergency concept, they offer a robust protective shield for your data. Our Ancel Security team will be happy to advise you on the implementation of a suitable solution - tailored to your infrastructure, requirements and security needs.
This article was supported by the AI application ChatGPT by OpenAI – especially for research, content structuring, and drafting some sections. All content was reviewed, adapted, and contextually framed by the author.
AI is used here as an editorial tool to present complex topics clearly and efficiently. Full creative and content responsibility remains with the author.
