Comparison and Selection Criteria

When choosing between custom scripts (as documented in this guide) and third-party tools, consider:

Custom Scripts:

• ✓ Simple, transparent, and easy to understand

• ✓ No additional software installation required

• ✓ Direct control over backup and restore process

• ✓ Minimal resource overhead

• ✗ Manual execution required

• ✗ No built-in scheduling or automation

• ✗ Limited to application data (not Kubernetes resources)

Third-Party Tools:

• ✓ Automated scheduling and retention

• ✓ Kubernetes resource backup included

• ✓ Often include monitoring and alerting

• ✓ May support incremental backups

• ✗ Additional complexity and learning curve

• ✗ Resource overhead for tool operation

• ✗ May require licensing costs

• ✗ Dependency on external software

Selection Criteria:

Choose custom scripts if:

• You need a simple, one-time migration

• You want full control and transparency

• You prefer minimal dependencies

• Your environment is straightforward

Choose third-party tools if:

• You need automated, scheduled backups

• You require Kubernetes resource backup

• You have complex multi-cluster environments

• You need enterprise support and compliance features

• You plan regular migrations or disaster recovery testing