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Introduction to cyber security: stay safe online
Introduction to cyber security: stay safe online

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3.7 Archiving data

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Figure 18

In a perfect world, each of us would keep a backup of every piece of data we ever use, but it is simply impractical for most of us to buy enough media to store our backups.

Instead, most media are reused after a certain period of time with old backups written over by new data. Businesses, in particular, must retain backups for a number of years (for legal and tax purposes) before media can be recycled.

Important files, especially those of historic or legal interest should be archived so that they are never overwritten. In many countries, it is a legal obligation for companies to archive data for auditing purposes. Governments around the world are recognising the importance of archiving data and authorising national bodies to store important digital records. In Britain, this work is managed by the National Archives and the British Library.

Next, you’ll have an opportunity to review your knowledge in the end-of-week practice quiz.