Consistency check

Learn about Consistency Check, a crucial process for ensuring data integrity and accuracy.

Definition

A consistency check, also known as a data validation check, is a process used to ensure that data being backed up or stored is consistent and accurate. It involves comparing the data being backed up or stored to a known good copy to identify any discrepancies or errors.

Explanation

A consistency check is typically performed as part of a backup or storage process to ensure that the data being backed up or stored is accurate and can be successfully restored in case of data loss or corruption. The process involves comparing the data being backed up or stored to a known good copy, which can be either a previous backup or an original data source.

The consistency check can identify a variety of issues, such as missing data, corrupt files, or data that has been modified since the last backup. Depending on the backup or storage solution being used, the consistency check may be performed automatically as part of the backup process, or it may need to be initiated manually.

Related terms

• Backup verification: A process used to confirm that a backup is complete and accurate, typically by comparing it to the original data source.

• Data integrity: The accuracy and consistency of data over its entire lifecycle, including creation, storage, processing, and retrieval.

• Disaster recovery: The process of restoring data and systems to a functional state after a disruptive event, such as a natural disaster or cyber attack.

• Incremental backup: A type of backup that only backs up data that has changed since the last backup, rather than backing up the entire data set each time.

• Recovery point objective (RPO): The maximum amount of data that an organization can afford to lose in the event of a disaster, typically measured in time.