What term is used for backup systems that ensure continuous operation?

The term used for backup systems that ensure continuous operation is redundancy. Redundancy refers to the inclusion of extra components or systems that can take over in case of a failure of primary components. By having redundant systems, a data center can maintain availability and operational integrity, as these additional layers act as fail-safes. When a primary system fails, a redundant system can seamlessly take over, allowing for uninterrupted service and minimal downtime.

In the context of data centers, redundancy is crucial for ensuring that critical applications and services remain operational despite individual component failures. This could involve duplicate power supplies, additional network paths, or mirrored data storage. The goal is to design systems that inherently support continuity, without requiring human intervention to switch over.

In contrast, while fault tolerance refers to the ability of a system to continue operation even in the event of a failure, it is a broader concept that encompasses redundancy as a strategy. Resiliency is similar but more focused on the ability of a system to recover quickly after a failure occurs, emphasizing adaptation and recovery processes. Capacity relates to the ability of a system to handle the required workload but does not inherently ensure continued operation during a failure event.