GitHub is a popular platform for code hosting and version control, the ideal hub where developers can host and collaborate on software projects.
Operating on a large scale, GitHub offers essential tools and services for projects of all types and sizes.
But as we look at the endless projects and functionalities on GitHub, a crucial question comes up: Where exactly is all this data stored?
This blog will explore GitHub’s data storage infrastructure, including its current storage approach – Spokes – and the improvements it’s made to handle the platform’s expanding needs over time.
How GitHub handles data
GitHub repositories are at the core of how the platform handles data, acting as folders or directories for your project files in languages like Python and JavaScript, Ruby, Java, and many more.
When you visit a GitHub repository, the platform does everything in its power to guarantee a smooth loading experience.
The system uses various servers and tools to make sure the repository page you’ve selected loads fast. GitHub uses servers that are spread out around the world to reduce delays and guarantee a smooth experience, no matter your location.
Initially, GitHub relied on Rackspace to store data due to its speed and dependability. But as the platform’s user community expanded, GitHub shifted to Spokes, its own infrastructure designed to effectively handle the increased storage demands.
Improvements in GitHub’s storage over time
Spokes marked a significant milestone in GitHub’s evolution. It provided a foundation for better performance, scalability, and reliability.
Switching to its own storage infrastructure means GitHub can better manage its growing volume of user traffic and data. With this new approach, Github can add more servers as needed without compromising on performance or user experience.
These advancements show Github’s dedication to guaranteeing it remains a top platform for hosting code and facilitating collaboration for many years.
Spokes: GitHub’s advanced storage system
Spokes is different from other storage methods because it uses a distributed approach. This means it can replicate and store data in multiple locations around the world for added security.
Here’s how Spokes benefits you:
- Enhanced data security: Replication protects your code from hardware failures, network issues, or disruptions at a single site. By guaranteeing data remains accessible from different locations, Spokes minimises downtime and maintains data integrity.
- Improved accessibility and performance: Spokes’ distributed storage system optimises data retrieval to improve efficiency, minimise delays, and boost overall performance. Regardless of location, you can trust that your code is safely stored and easily accessible.
The limitations of GitHub storage
Despite its updated storage infrastructure, Github’s ability to protect your data is still limited. The platform operates under The Shared Responsibility Model, which means you also play a crucial role in managing and protecting your data.
Potential scenarios where Spokes could lead to data loss include network outages, data consistency issues, hardware failures, and cyberattacks.
Under the Shared Responsibility Model, you can complement GitHub’s storage infrastructure with additional backup and recovery solutions from third-party vendors.
Importance of third-party backup services
Losing critical data can have serious consequences for your company. It can lead to downtime, financial setbacks, and reputational damage.
It’s important to have a third-party Github backup solution like BackupLABS in place to reduce these risks and maintain seamless business operations.
The benefits of third-party backups include
1. Data protection
Your data is vulnerable to hardware failures, cyberattacks, human errors, natural disasters, and other threats. Third-party backup solutions safeguard your critical information by providing an additional layer of security and enabling quick restoration of lost or corrupted data.
2. Legal protection
The extra security offered by third-party backup solutions is particularly beneficial in regions where strict guidelines govern data storage locations.
These laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act, specify criteria for handling and storing the personal data of individuals living in the UK.
You can obey the law by choosing third-party backup services that meet regulations while protecting your valuable information.
3. Business continuity
Using external backup systems reduce downtime, helping you maintain business operations during data loss or disruptions.
Restoring data quickly allows critical business functions to restart promptly, minimising financial risks and preserving customer confidence.
4. Scalability
Many third-party backup services offer scalable solutions for your business’s growing needs. Whether a small startup or a large enterprise, these services can adapt to your changing data storage requirements without compromising performance or security.
Why use BackupLABS as your backup solution?
With BackupLABS, you can enjoy a reliable and feature-rich backup solution, excellent customer support, and robust security.
BackupLABS offers a comprehensive backup solution with the following features:
- On-demand account backups: Securely back up all your data whenever you need, without any restrictions. Plus, easily create pull requests to propose changes to your backed-up data.
- Automated revision tracking: Easily access previous versions of your repositories and track changes effortlessly.
- Manual download: Download your archive files privately in zip format for offline access or sharing.
- Bulk restoration: Restore multiple files at once, simplifying the recovery process.
- Instant cloning: Use backups to create clones of your data instantly, as many times as required.
- Comprehensive metadata retention: Ensure that your repositories retain all necessary data for future reference.
- Dedicated customer support: Access dedicated customer support whenever you need assistance.
- File renaming support: Optionally rename restored files for easy identification and organisation.
- Security alerts: Receive alerts and notifications to stay informed about security-related matters.
- Website security and encryption: BackupLABS ensures website privacy, security, and compliance with industry standards like SOC2 and ISO accreditation.
Does BackupLABS cloud storage solution sound like the right choice for your organisation? Sign up for our 14-day free trial to try it for yourself.
