What type of backup only includes data that has changed since the last backup?

An incremental backup is a method that captures only the data that has changed or been added since the last backup operation, regardless of whether that last backup was a full or another incremental backup. This is highly efficient because it minimizes the amount of data stored and reduces the time needed to complete the backup, as only new or modified information is included.

When recovering data, an incremental backup requires that you have the last full backup and all subsequent incremental backups in order to restore the complete dataset. This method is particularly advantageous in environments where storage space is at a premium and where quick backup times are essential.

Understanding this concept is fundamental in data management strategies, as organizations often balance the need for data protection with resource utilization.