# Overview

#### A robust backup strategy is fundamental to keeping data safe.

<p class="callout info">By default, Elest.io automates a 3-2-1 backup strategy for all new services.  
**3** copies of your data exist at all times.  
**2** are kept in geographically distinct data centers in your selected region.  
**1** backup is kept on-site for fast restoring.</p>

- [Automated remote backups](https://docs.elest.io/books/backups/page/automated-remote-backups-borg "Remote Backups")
- [Automated VM Snapshots](https://docs.elest.io/books/backups/page/automated-vm-snapshots "VM Snapshots")
- [Local backups](https://docs.elest.io/books/backups/page/manual-local-backups "Local backups")
- [External Backups](https://docs.elest.io/books/backups/page/automated-external-backups-s3 "External Backups")

Each backup type has different retention periods and characteristics.

[![Screenshot 2022-09-29 152007.png](https://docs.elest.io/uploads/images/gallery/2022-09/screenshot-2022-09-29-152007.png)](https://docs.elest.io/uploads/images/gallery/2022-01/image-1643100276731.png)