ISC Resilience · Updated November 2026
Full vs Incremental vs Differential Backup
Smaller faster backups usually mean more complicated restores.
Full backup
A full backup copies the entire selected data set.
Incremental
Incremental copies changes since the most recent backup of any type.
Differential
Differential copies changes since the last full backup.
Exam strategy
Ask since when: incremental means last backup; differential means last full.
The takeaway
Full copies everything; incremental changes since last backup; differential changes since last full.
Related Summit resources
FAQ
Which usually has the simplest restore?
Full.
Which depends most on a chain?
Incremental.
Differential measures from what point?
The last full backup.