Assessing Rubrik Backup Costs for Businesses


Intro
When businesses look to invest in software solutions, especially backup systems, the financial implications often stretch beyond the initial purchase price. Rubrik has carved a niche in providing robust backup and recovery solutions, but analyzing its costs demands a closer look at various elements. This examination goes beyond the mere dollar figure on a quote, diving into aspects like pricing structures, potential hidden expenses, and the overall return on investment.
Key considerations include the scalability of the solution, the components that contribute to the overall cost, and how these play into a business's long-term strategy for data management. By laying out these elements, decision-makers can navigate the potential pitfalls and advantages that come with choosing Rubrik. Each factor becomes a piece of the puzzle, contributing to a clearer understanding and enabling sharper decision-making in an ever-evolving tech landscape.
Overview of Rubrik Backup Solutions
In today’s digital landscape, where data is the lifeblood of any organization, understanding the tools available for backup and recovery is crucial. Rubrik positions itself as a leader in this field, offering solutions that not only protect critical data but also simplify management processes. As companies navigate the complexities of data preservation, the importance of Rubrik’s backup solutions cannot be overstated. By diving into this comprehensive overview, we will illuminate the unique aspects that make Rubrik a compelling choice for businesses of all sizes.
Preamble to Rubrik
Rubrik emerged in the tech scene with a clear mission: to redefine how organizations handle their data. Initially founded in 2014, its cloud data management capabilities have gained recognition for providing unparalleled support in data backup, recovery, and protection. Rubrik combines physical and virtual environments, which allows businesses to unify their approach to data management effectively. The flexibility of the platform is one of its standout features; it can effortlessly adapt to various data types across hybrid environments. Moreover, its focus on automation cuts down the time IT teams spend on manual processes, letting them focus on strategic initiatives instead. In the age of rapid digital transformation, where the only constant is change, Rubrik stands out as a reliable partner for organizations looking to future-proof their data strategy.
Core Features of Rubrik Backup
Rubrik’s backup solutions are replete with features designed to cater to the unique needs of modern enterprises:
- Instant Recovery: One of the significant benefits is the ability to recover data instantly, minimizing downtime in case of a data loss incident. This can be a game changer for businesses that cannot afford to lose any operational time.
- Global Search: Users can quickly find and restore any data, regardless of where it is located in their system. This efficiency adds layers of convenience, particularly for large organizations with extensive databases.
- Comprehensive Reporting: Knowing the status of your backup is half the battle. Rubrik provides rich analytics and reporting tools that ensure users have full visibility into their data health.
- Cloud Integration: Rubrik seamlessly integrates with various public clouds, allowing businesses to extend their on-premises data environments to the cloud easily. This hybrid model empowers organizations to scale based on their needs.
- Security Features: Robust security measures ensure that backups are not only available but also safe from the growing threat landscape. Rubrik incorporates encryption and access controls, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access.
"Data is only as effective as its ability to be recovered. With Rubrik, businesses can rest easy knowing their data is safe and accessible."
By coordinating these core features harmoniously, Rubrik allows organizations to not only protect but also leverage their data effectively, ensuring they do not just survive, but thrive in an increasingly data-driven world. As we continue to explore the financial implications of Rubrik backup solutions, understanding these foundational features provides a critical backdrop for evaluating costs and benefits.
Understanding the Cost Structure
The cost structure of Rubrik backup solutions is pivotal to grasping the total financial responsibility an organization might face when choosing this technology. Understanding this framework not only empowers businesses to make informed decisions but also helps them set realistic budgets that account for both immediate and long-term expenses. Unpacking this concept reveals hidden expenses and essential components, shedding light on how these factors interact to impact total costs.
Structured like a finely woven tapestry, the cost elements consist of several threads, each essential to the overall picture. Companies need to consider the licensing models in place, the additional costs associated with implementation, and how pricing plans mesh with their unique needs.
Crucially, understanding the cost structure can unveil potential savings and inefficiencies that may otherwise go unnoticed. Knowledge of these aspects enables IT teams to avoid common pitfalls and leverage Rubrik’s features effectively.
"Informed decisions hinge upon understanding the cost structure of your backup solutions."
Licensing Models Explained
The licensing models offered by Rubrik significantly influence the overall cost of implementation. Typically, there are several options, including perpetual licensing and subscription-based models. Each comes with its own set of advantages and pitfalls.
In a perpetual licensing model, organizations pay a lump sum upfront for a software license. While this may seem like a hefty expense at first glance, the long-term savings can be profound if the organization plans to utilize the software for several years. This model can simplify budgeting since costs incurred over the years might be predictable.
Conversely, the subscription-based model allows companies to pay on a monthly or annual basis. This can be particularly appealing to smaller organizations or those just starting out, as it reduces the initial financial burden. Notably, these plans often come with built-in upgrades and support, ensuring users benefit from the latest features without incurring extra costs.
Deciding which model fits best involves evaluating factors like workload size, budget flexibility, and expected duration of software usage.
Additional Costs to Consider
When analyzing Rubrik's backup solutions, businesses must also take into account several additional costs that might emerge over time.
- Training costs: These are often overlooked but critical, as staff might require training sessions to maximize the utility of the software.
- Integration expenses: Implementing Rubrik with existing systems may necessitate specialized resources, leading to unforeseen costs.
- Upgrading hardware: If your current infrastructure can’t support Rubrik’s demanding software requirements, an investment in hardware is likely.
- Support fees: While some support might come included, ongoing support can accrue further charges over the lifespan of the product.
Each of these costs can unwittingly add to the total outlay, distorting initial budgeting perceptions. Riding on top of these, random maintenance costs can emerge, often sneaking in when least expected.
Comparing Pricing Plans
Comparing pricing plans in a systematic manner can significantly shape decision making regarding Rubrik’s offerings. With multiple licensing structures available, firms should assess how well these align with their operational needs.
- Plan Variation: Rubrik generally offers tiers that can accommodate different complexity and scale levels, from small firms to enterprise-level demands. Each tier comes with varying capabilities and includes numerous features, such as automation or advanced analytics.
- Usage Metrics: Be aware of how usage metrics impact costs. Pricing may vary based on data volume, number of users, or features utilized, leading to variable pricing among different plans.
- User Feedback: Engaging in forums such as Reddit and specialized IT websites can reveal insights from real users with firsthand experience using Rubrik under various plans and pricing structures. Their feedback often highlights outliers and helps identify hidden costs you might encounter.


By dissecting the pricing plans thoroughly, businesses can align their operational needs with a plan that best offers a balance of functionality and affordability, ensuring they get the most bang for their buck without overlooking important features.
Initial Investment and Implementation Costs
The initial investment and implementation costs associated with Rubrik backup solutions play a pivotal role in shaping an organization’s decision-making process. As businesses embark on the journey of integrating a backup solution, it’s crucial to look beyond just the initial price tag. These costs not only cover the upfront purchase but also encompass a range of other essential elements that contribute to successful deployment and long-term usability. Evaluating these expenses provides insights into the total cost of ownership, which can significantly affect the overall value derived from the solution.
Setup and Configuration Expenses
Setting up and configuring Rubrik solutions involves various expenses that can often catch businesses off guard. Initially, organizations need to assess their current infrastructure. The configuration process is not a mere plug-and-play scenario; it requires careful planning and often, expert assistance.
- Hardware Compatibility: Ensuring that existing hardware is compatible with Rubrik backup solutions can incur additional costs for upgrades or replacements.
- Professional Services: Hiring third-party consultants or partners for installation and configuration might be necessary, especially for larger setups. These professionals are typically adept at navigating the technical landscape, facilitating a smoother implementation.
- Integration Costs: Integration with existing systems—such as databases, cloud storage, and other IT solutions—also demands attention and potentially more resources.
Misjudging these factors can lead to project delays and increased costs, disrupting business operations. Therefore, being thorough in evaluating the setup specifics can help mitigate unforeseen expenses and allow for a smoother transition.
Training and Onboarding Costs
Once the Rubrik solution is in place, the next important step is ensuring that team members are properly trained to utilize the system effectively. Training and onboarding are often overlooked but should be considered essential components of the implementation phase.
- Training Programs: Organizations may need to invest in comprehensive training programs to familiarize employees with the Rubrik interface and features. Online courses, webinars, or in-person sessions with experts can be beneficial here but come with a cost.
- Time Investment: There’s also the matter of the time employees will spend learning the new system, which can take them away from their regular duties, leading to temporary reductions in productivity.
- Support Material: Creating or accessing support materials, like manuals or online resources, can add to the overall training costs. The availability of these resources is crucial for long-term usability.
Organizations should view these training and onboarding costs as an investment rather than a mere expense. A well-trained workforce can leverage the full potential of Rubrik solutions, thereby maximizing return on investment.
“The true cost of a solution is not just what you pay upfront but includes how effectively your team can utilize it over time.”
Ongoing Operational Costs
Understanding ongoing operational costs is crucial for any organization considering Rubrik backup solutions. These costs are not just a footnote in the budget; they can significantly impact the overall financial health of your IT investment. While the initial setup and implementation fees might snag your immediate focus, it's the ongoing expenses that tend to sneak up on unsuspecting businesses. In this segment, we’ll delve into two key components: maintenance and support fees, as well as storage capacity costs, both essential in keeping your Rubriksystem running smoothly.
Maintenance and Support Fees
Maintenance and support fees form a large part of the ongoing operational expenses related to Rubrik solutions. These costs can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the deployment and the level of service required. Typically, you may encounter two primary types of support services: basic and premium.
- Basic Support: This generally includes standard assistance during business hours, such as troubleshooting and technical guidance.
- Premium Support: For a higher price, premium services offer 24/7 availability, immediate incident response, dedicated account management, and often include proactive system monitoring.
When weighing the choice between basic and premium support, consider how critical backup operations are to your business. For larger enterprises or those that handle sensitive data, the peace of mind that comes with premium support can be worth every penny.
Moreover, as technology evolves, so do the updates and patches necessary to keep the software running efficiently. Hence, part of these fees might also include periodic software updates, which are essential for security and functionality.
Storage Capacity Costs
Next, let’s talk storage capacity costs. Storage isn’t just about the bytes you need today; it’s about planning for tomorrow's growth as well. Rubrik offers various pricing models depending on your backup needs, which can range from block-based to file-based storage solutions.
When budgeting for storage, take into account the following factors:
- Data Growth Projections: If your organization grows, expect your data to grow in tandem. It’s wise to estimate future needs to avoid unexpected costs down the line.
- Backup Frequency and Retention Policies: The more frequently you back up and the longer you retain your data, the more storage you will require. Evaluate your organization's data retention policies and adjust as necessary to find a cost-effective balance.
- Deduplication and Compression: Rubrik uses technologies like deduplication, helping to reduce the actual storage needed by excluding duplicate data. However, factor in these capabilities when calculating costs, as they can yield significant savings in storage fees.
"In tech, the unexpected tends to pop up when you least expect it; ongoing costs are no exception."
As you delve deeper into the financial aspects of your Rubrik backup solution, remember to continually reassess both your current state and future needs to keep expenses in check while ensuring effective data management.
Future-Proofing Your Investment
In today's fast-paced tech landscape, investing in backup solutions is not just a case of checking off a box; it necessitates a forward-thinking approach. Businesses are increasingly seeking systems that accommodate tomorrow's demands, not just today's. Future-proofing your investment in Rubrik backup solutions is crucial, ensuring that the choices you make today align with your growth trajectory and provide the flexibility needed for evolving business needs.
Why Future-Proofing Matters
Future-proof investments can save organizations from sinking money into outdated technologies. Consider this: a company that opts for a flexible solution today can pivot to meet new challenges and opportunities without constantly incurring additional costs. When evaluating Rubrik's backup offerings, keep a discerning eye on scalability and adaptability as fundamental criteria for ensuring that your investment will remain relevant.
Scalability of Rubrik Solutions


When it comes to scalability, Rubrik offers a robust architecture that grows along with your organization. Their approach leverages a cloud-native design that allows businesses to add capacity as needed without facing steep costs or undertaking cumbersome migrations.
- Flexible Expansion: You won’t be locked into a specific capacity; adding additional resources can be seamless.
- Integration with Existing Systems: Rubrik's solutions often integrate well with other IT infrastructure, ensuring that growth can occur in harmony with existing frameworks.
- Hybrid Cloud Capabilities: Many businesses today embrace a hybrid cloud strategy, and Rubrik's architecture supports multiple environments—both on-premises and cloud-based—allowing for easy scalability as business needs evolve.
This ability to expand your backup solutions is not just a benefit; it is a necessity in the modern landscape where data volume swells almost daily.
Adaptability to Business Growth
Beyond scalability, the adaptability of Rubrik solutions comes into play, enabling businesses to pivot, innovate, and scale operations more effectively.
- Evolving Business Models: Organizations frequently adjust their operational models in response to market trends. Rubrik’s backup solutions adapt to these changes without needing a complete overhaul of the system.
- Regulatory Compliance: As compliance requirements rise across different sectors, being adaptable means that Rubrik can modify its backup strategies to align with new regulations—an asset rare in many backup solutions.
- Tailored Features: Rubrik allows users to customize their backup strategies flexibly, ensuring that as a business’s needs shift, their backup solutions can evolve contemporaneously.
In summary, when you think about future-proofing your investment, consider scalability and adaptability to be guiding principles. These aspects empower businesses to not just survive but thrive as they navigate an ever-changing technological landscape.
"Investing in a scalable and adaptable backup solution is akin to planting a tree for future shade."
By embedding these qualities into your Rubrik deployment, you position your organization not just to succeed but to lead in this age of disruption.
Evaluating Return on Investment
Evaluating return on investment (ROI) in the context of Rubrik backup solutions is a cornerstone of understanding the financial viability of adopting this technology. Businesses—be it a small startup or a sprawling corporation—need to grasp how investments in backup solutions can yield beneficial returns, both in tangible savings and more subtle operational efficiencies. Over the years, as data management needs have morphed with the rapid pace of technological advancement, being equipped with a clear framework for calculating ROI can strongly influence procurement decisions.
In this section, we’ll delve into several critical components that help illuminate the pathway to quantifying the value derived from Rubrik’s solutions.
Quantifying Cost Savings
Cost savings are often the most immediate indicators that a business can point to when validating an investment. With Rubrik's offerings, organizations are not just saving money; they’re also minimizing potential losses from data breaches or downtime.
- Data Deduplication: Rubrik’s technology intelligently deduplicates data, which can drastically lessen storage needs and, subsequently, costs associated with maintaining those storage facilities. Consequently, companies trim down their infrastructure spending.
- Reduced Recovery Time: Fast recovery of data means businesses can resume operations quickly after an incident. By minimizing downtime, productivity losses that contribute to financial drain are significantly reduced.
- Compliance and Avoidance of Penalties: Proper data management facilitates regulatory compliance. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, but with Rubrik’s solutions, the risk of incurring such costs is substantially mitigated.
Each of these factors plays a crucial role in defining the cost savings that firms can expect from using Rubrik’s backup solutions.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Operational efficiency doesn’t always scream savings right off the bat, but its effects surely ripple through every facet of a business's operations. When downtime is less frequent, and data access becomes instantaneous, the overall productivity of teams skyrockets.
- Streamlined Workflows: With Rubrik, the backup processes, which used to take hours, can be automated and scheduled for a time when employee activity is low. This means employees spend less time managing backups and more time focusing on their core responsibilities.
- User Training: Training costs are often underestimated. Rubrik's user-friendly interface enables even those less tech-savvy to adapt relatively easily. This translates to fewer hours spent on training and onboarding.
- Scalable Solutions: As businesses grow, so do their data requirements. Rubrik allows for flexibility; no need for major investments in additional infrastructure every time data grows—this leads to better allocation of resources in the long run.
Ultimately, such operational enhancements not only make daily processes smoother but can also create new opportunities for innovation and customer engagement.
Long-term Strategic Benefits
Taking a step back, the contributions of Rubrik’s solutions extend beyond immediate financial gains and improved efficiencies. The long-term strategic benefits often align closely with overall business goals, creating sustained advantages that keep companies competitive in their respective markets.
- Future-proofing Data Management: The tech landscape is forever changing, but Rubrik emphasizes modularity and adaptability, preparing businesses to tackle future challenges without significant additional investments.
- Improved Risk Mitigation: By safeguarding data comprehensively, firms can reduce the long-term costs of potential data breaches and legal repercussions, providing a stable foundation upon which they can build their reputations.
- Enhanced Decision Making: Access to critical data with ease can shape informed decisions that drive better outcomes. Organizations become empowered to leverage analytics without being bogged down by data retrieval delays.
Cost Comparisons with Competitors
In today's competitive landscape, understanding the nuances of pricing plays a pivotal role in shaping business choices. When it comes to Rubrik backup solutions, evaluating costs in relation to competitors is essential for informed decision-making. Cost comparisons enable businesses to scrutinize the value offered against similar products in the market, ensuring that funds allocated toward backup solutions yield the best return.
The importance of this topic extends beyond just numbers on a page; it encompasses the examination of features, support levels, and overall service experience. A thorough cost comparison will not only uncover potential savings but also highlight feature sets that provide greater value. For instance, factors such as data compression techniques and recovery options may sway the decision-making process if they are proven to save time and resources in a disaster recovery scenario.
Identifying Key Competitors
To make meaningful comparisons with Rubrik, it’s critical to first identify what players are in the game. Key competitors in the backup and disaster recovery sectors often include brand names like Veeam, Cohesity, Acronis, and Commvault. Each of these solutions offers unique advantages and comes with its own pricing strategy.
- Veeam is renowned for its efficient virtual machine backups, often appealing to enterprises with significant investments in virtual infrastructure.
- Cohesity specializes in simplifying data management across hybrid environments, a strong selling point for businesses looking to streamline operations.
- Acronis is notable for its splash in cyber protection, combining backup with anti-ransomware features that attract security-focused customers.
- Commvault provides a comprehensive suite of data management services, further appealing to larger organizations with complex needs.


With these competitors in mind, IT managers can begin to sketch out a framework for comparison.
Price Points Analysis
When diving into price points, it’s important to look beyond the sticker price. Each competitor stacks up differently based on long-term costs, which include ongoing support and potential hidden fees.
- Licensing Models: Compare whether the competitors use a subscription model or a one-time license fee. Subscriptions might appear cheaper upfront but can accumulate significantly over time.
- Features Included: Look at what features are bundled with each offering. For example, if a lower-priced solution lacks essential features like continuous data protection or needed integrations, those savings might not be worth it in the long run.
- Scalability Costs: As businesses grow, the cost involved in scaling the backup solutions can be significant. Rubrik's pricing may appear high initially, but if it allows for greater scalability without increasing costs rapidly, it could potentially lead to lower total cost of ownership over time.
In evaluating price points, considering the ease of adding further capacity or new features is key.
"In the end, choosing a backup solution is not just about the cost but about assessing the total value it brings to the business context."
Understanding these nuances can be a game-changer. Not all solutions are created equal, and discovering the true costs associated with each is imperative for making the best choice for your organization.
For further exploration of these concepts, you might refer to resources like Wikipedia for details on specific backup technologies or visit Reddit for discussions among IT professionals comparing their experiences with Rubrik and its competitors.
User Experiences and Perspectives
User experiences play a pivotal role in framing our understanding of Rubrik's backup solutions. These perspectives not only showcase the real-world applicability of the software but also highlight both triumphs and struggles users face while navigating its landscape. For decision-makers, gleaning insights from actual users can bridge the gap between theoretical benefits and practical outcomes. In today’s tech-driven world, where innovation outpaces experience, authentic narratives often provide the most reliable gauge of effectiveness.
When businesses decide to invest in backup solutions, they’re not simply looking at features or price tags. They want proven track records and validation from their peers. User experiences can provide valuable context, revealing how Rubrik's solutions adapt to diverse industry needs. Often, this includes anecdotes on ease of implementation, customer service responsiveness, and integration capabilities with existing infrastructure. The impact of these factors is pronounced, as they can either cultivate a pleasant user experience or lead to considerable frustration.
Several dimensions comprise what's analyzed here: successes that inspire confidence, as well as challenges that caution stakeholders to tread carefully.
Success Stories
Success stories emerge as testaments to Rubrik's efficacy in dynamic business environments.
- Streamlined Data Recovery: For a mid-sized manufacturer, a smooth transition to Rubrik meant that data recovery times were reduced from hours to mere minutes. This was pivotal during an unexpected outage that could have crippled production lines. The peace of mind that comes with swift recovery cannot be overstated; it’s often a matter of operational continuity.
- Enhanced Security: A financial services firm reported significant gains after deploying Rubrik's backup solutions. The ability to encrypt stored data and manage it through a centralized console increased their security posture immensely. Their CEO framed it well: "In finance, data integrity isn’t just important; it’s paramount. Rubrik helped us protect our assets while ensuring compliance with industry regulations."
- Cost Reduction: A healthcare provider shared how Rubrik’s deduplication capabilities reduced their storage needs significantly. This result translated not only into cost savings but also into a more efficient use of resources, allowing funds to shift towards patient care services instead.
Challenges Faced by Users
However, it’s not all roses. Users have faced certain bumps along the road when working with Rubrik solutions. Recognizing these challenges is equally essential.
- Integration Hurdles: Several users found integrating Rubrik with existing legacy systems daunting. While Rubrik generally plays well with modern infrastructures, those clinging to older systems may encounter complications. One IT manager lamented, "The backup solution works well on its own, but marrying it with our outdated software made for a steep learning curve."
- Cost Perception: Some organizations perceived the initial costs as high. For instance, a small enterprise expressed concerns about the financial commitment required to fully deploy the solution. It's important to navigate these initial perceptions by focusing on the long-term ROI and total cost of ownership rather than snap judgments based on upfront investment alone.
- Support Response Times: While customer service is generally regarded as an asset, a few users voiced concerns about wait times for tech support. A common refrain is that prompt support can frequently make a significant difference in resolving crises efficiently. In tech environments where every minute counts, any delays can produce palpable anxiety.
The diversity of user experiences, from resounding endorsements to practical challenges, provides a rich tapestry for understanding Rubrik’s solutions. Stakeholders should explore these perspectives thoroughly, as they reflect not only on the product but also on the company’s commitment to continual improvement and customer satisfaction.
"Listening to user feedback is paramount. It’s the best way to ensure that tools evolve to meet real-world demands." - IT Expert
For further insights on user experiences, platforms like Reddit can offer diverse discussions, while sites such as Wikipedia provide contextual knowledge on the company and its products.
The Ends and Recommendations
When contemplating the costs surrounding Rubrik backup solutions, it's essential to take a step back and absorb the larger picture. This isn't merely about how much the software costs at first glance. Rather, it involves a multilayered approach encompassing potential future expenses and value gain through operational efficiency.
Decision-makers should recognize the need for a thorough evaluation, balancing the direct costs with the additional benefits that high-quality backup solutions can impart.
Summarizing Key Points
Here are the crucial takeaways to keep in mind:
- Comprehensive Cost Analysis: Beyond the initial and ongoing expenses, be aware of licensing models and hidden costs. These factors can significantly impact your budget over time.
- Investment in Training: Considering the learning curve associated with implementing such systems, it’s vital for organizations to allocate resources for proper onboarding and employee training. A properly trained staff can exploit the full capabilities of Rubrik, which in turn can lead to greater operational efficiency.
- Future Growth Considerations: Rubrik’s scalability means that your backup solution could adapt as your business grows. However, it’s necessary to evaluate whether the cost of upgrading alongside your business will be tolerated by your budget in the long run.
- Comparative Analysis with Competitors: Understanding how Rubrik measures up against competitors is crucial. Knowing their strengths and weaknesses relative to pricing can help justify your investment to stakeholders.
In summary, these points serve as a framework for understanding the multifaceted costs tied to Rubrik backup solutions, paving the way for informed decision-making.
Strategic Recommendations for Businesses
For businesses looking to navigate the landscape of Rubrik’s offerings, a few strategic recommendations stand out:
- Conduct a Comprehensive Needs Assessment: Not every aspect of Rubrik will apply to every organization. Tailoring the solution to meet specific needs can prevent overspending on unnecessary features.
- Negotiate Terms: Don’t shy away from negotiating with providers. Flexible payment terms or bundled packages could save your organization money in both upfront and ongoing costs.
- Maintain Open Lines of Communication: Establishing fruitful communication between IT and finance departments can minimize misunderstandings about costs, and allow for a more cohesive approach to budgeting and implementation.
- Implement Incremental Adoption: For large-scale businesses, consider rolling out Rubrik in phases. This makes the financial impact easier to manage, allows for initial assessments on performance, and can lend insights into further investments.
In closing, understanding the costs related to Rubrik backup solutions isn’t just about numbers; it’s about forging a dependable infrastructure that safeguards your data while aligning with your financial plan. By following these recommendations, businesses can make choices that serve both their immediate and long-term backup needs.