CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202)Operational ProceduresEasy

A company wants to comply with the 3-2-1 backup rule for its critical database. Which backup configuration satisfies this rule?

  1. ATwo copies on the same external hard drive stored in the server room
  2. BThree copies all stored in the cloud with the same provider
  3. COne copy on a NAS and one copy on a USB drive, both onsite
  4. DThree copies total: two on different local media types and one stored offsite
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. Three copies total: two on different local media types and one stored offsite

The 3-2-1 rule requires 3 total copies of data, on 2 different types of media, with 1 copy stored offsite. Option B is the only choice that satisfies all three requirements.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Only one media type and no offsite copy.
  • B. All copies are the same media type (cloud) and none are physically separated offsite media-wise.
  • C. Only 2 copies and no offsite storage.

3-2-1 Backup Rule

A backup strategy requiring 3 total copies of data, on 2 different media types, with 1 copy stored offsite to protect against data loss.

  • 3 copies total (original + 2 backups)
  • 2 different storage media types
  • 1 copy offsite for disaster recovery

Memory trick: Three, Two, One: Triple copies, Two media, One away from home.

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