The Howdy Glossary

Duplicity is an open-source backup solution for Unix-based operating systems that emphasizes encrypted, bandwidth-efficient capabilities using SSH and GnuPG tools. It performs incremental backups by analyzing changes in the source directory since the last full backup, transferring only new or modified files, which are stored as encrypted archive files. This approach minimizes storage requirements and network bandwidth usage while ensuring data security through encryption standards like GnuPG's symmetric-key algorithms.

Duplicity was created to provide a reliable, secure, and efficient backup solution for Unix-based systems with a focus on data protection and resource optimization. The software's ability to create incremental backups reduces both storage needs and network traffic by only transferring altered or new data to local or remote destinations. By storing these backups as encrypted archives, Duplicity ensures that ongoing updates do not require re-transferring existing data, thereby enhancing efficiency while maintaining strong encryption protocols to safeguard information.

Duplicity stands out from competitors such as Rsnapshot, Bacula, Amanda, and Rsync by emphasizing its encrypted backup capabilities using tools like SSH and GnuPG coupled with efficient incremental backups. Its competitive advantages include reduced storage demands and network usage due to its method of transferring only modified files and storing them securely as encrypted archives. This positions Duplicity as a specialized solution ideal for individuals, businesses, and organizations seeking dependable backup solutions that prioritize security, efficiency in bandwidth use, and optimized storage for Unix-based systems.