PyCon UK 2025

Backing up data is conceptually very simple. When it comes to implementing a backup system however, the pressure is on and the options are endless.

In this talk, we say no to analysis paralysis and get into the details that matter. First, we will define the technical attributes of a backup system then, how these attributes matter on a human level before and throughout a data loss event.

For this case study, I draw from my own experience having two data loss events in October 2024, one from drive failure and another from burglary. That's right, it's time to get physical, as we dive into how I was the victim of a physical security breach and an information security failure within the same month and how my Sunday Raspi Syncthing project saved me not once, but twice.

Syncthing is an open source peer to peer file syncing software that backs data up by replicating files across multiple computers. It is decentralized, open source and works on a set and forget basis.

For me, this was initially a nifty way to minimize friction when changing work station. In a data loss event however, it became so much more, challenging my expectations of what a data backup solution is and how it should work.

Come along and see if a Syncthing Raspi node might be the missing link in your own data resilience strategy. Whether you're safeguarding code, memories, or mission-critical documents, this talk will give you practical tools, lessons learned the hard way, and maybe even a little inspiration to rethink what “backed up” really means.