Backup generations policy in file management: In standard information systems operations, what is the common practice for the number of generations of data files retained for recovery (grandfather–father–son approach)?

Introduction / Context:
Operational reliability depends on disciplined backup and retention policies. A widely used strategy is the “grandfather–father–son” rotation, which ensures multiple restore points to protect against corruption or operator error. This question asks for the common practice regarding how many generations are kept.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are discussing routine file backup generations for recovery.
• Focus is on number of generations, not on media type or schedule.
• Batch processing is not itself a retention level; it is a processing mode.

Concept / Approach:
The grandfather–father–son method maintains three generations: the most recent backup (son), the previous backup (father), and an older backup (grandfather). This structure increases the chance of having an uncorrupted restore point if recent backups are compromised.

Step-by-Step Solution:
List the generations in the canonical scheme: son, father, grandfather.Map that to a count: three generations.Select the option that states “three generations of data files.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Data center standards and audit guidelines frequently reference three-generation rotations as a baseline, sometimes supplemented by offsite or cloud copies.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• One or two generations: Provide insufficient fallbacks if the latest copy is bad.
• Batch processing: Not a retention count; irrelevant to the question asked.
• None of the above: Incorrect because a correct practice is stated.

Common Pitfalls:
Keeping only a single backup and discovering that it contains the same corruption as production; failing to test restores regularly.

Final Answer:
three generations of data files