How Does Checkpointing Differ from a Regular Backup in the Context of a Blockchain?

Checkpointing on a blockchain differs from a regular backup in that it is an active security measure that is part of the consensus mechanism, not just a passive copy of data. A checkpoint is a snapshot of the blockchain's state that is agreed upon by validators and immutably recorded on another, more secure blockchain.

This creates a publicly verifiable and tamper-resistant record, whereas a regular backup is typically a centralized copy of data that could be altered or compromised.