File-Level Backup is a backup that selects files and folders rather than a full volume or machine.
Simple definition
File-Level Backup is a backup that selects files and folders rather than a full volume or machine. It belongs to the Sauvegarde / PRA vocabulary and is useful when reading architecture diagrams, product documentation, logs, or administration procedures.
What is it used for?
Its main purpose is to protect selected data with simple granularity and file-by-file restores. The practical value depends on the surrounding architecture, security model, and operational requirements.
How does it work?
The agent or engine walks the file system, selects included objects, and copies their content and metadata according to policy.
Key points
- Scope: A backup that selects files and folders rather than a full volume or machine.
- Operational goal: Protect selected data with simple granularity and file-by-file restores.
- Implementation: The agent or engine walks the file system, selects included objects, and copies their content and metadata according to policy.
Points to watch
A backup is reliable only if restore is tested; document RPO/RTO, retention, immutability, and chain dependencies.
In short
File-Level Backup = a backup that selects files and folders rather than a full volume or machine. Use it when you need to protect selected data with simple granularity and file-by-file restores.