What is the difference between copy and backup?

Question

"copy *.* c:\ " sintax is valid for backup...I m asked for this question in an interview..

Answer 1

Copy is an exact duplicate of the file whereas a backup image is a compressed image of the file which has a certain extension depending of the particular backup utility.

Answer 2

A copy is just that - an exact copy in a different directory on the hard drive or on an external device for safe keeping.

A backup can be either an exact copy - usually on an external location for safe keeping, or, if you choose in Tools, Options, it can be a copy of your file up to the last save. This option can come in handy if you have ever accidentally deleted a file or messed it up royally. If you open the backup (which is read only) you can save it to a new name and at least have your work up to the last save. This option has saved my bacon a couple of times.

Answer 3

Well, basically, they have the same objective or concept..
To have copy of a file. But in a technical aspect, the "copy" command copies the file itself as is. The term "backup" nowadays may mean the file copy is either encrypted or protected for safe recovey and is stored in another location or media different from the original file.

Just correct me if im wrng guys:)

Answer 4

A Backup is an image file. It can not be accessed until it is restored to it's origin place as files and become accessible again.

Answer 5

i think these two have the same kind of meaning,but with backup we can store the data for future usage, so that we store it in CD,DVD,usb drive,floppy .but with copy with in a computer we can copy from one drive to another drive.

Answer 6

I would like to ask the same question as the person above.