File-level backups, or more simply “file backups” are exactly what they sound like: a backup of individual files. Files can be backed up to/from a desktop, server, network share, external drive, and so on. Any media or device with a file system can be backed up or restored to with a file backup.
They have many strengths and weaknesses, but file backups are one of the most common types of backups because of the familiarity that comes with being able to instantly recognize what is yours: your folder structure and files.