An incremental backup is a data protection method that saves only the changes made since the last backup. This means that after an initial full backup, subsequent backups only capture new or modified files. This approach is efficient in terms of storage space and time, as it reduces the amount of data that needs to be copied. For example, if you back up your files on a computer every Sunday, an incremental backup on Wednesday would only include files that have changed since Sunday. This method allows for quicker recovery and less resource usage compared to full backups, making it a popular choice for both individuals and businesses.