subject: Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Data Archiving [print this page] When it comes to digital data archiving, there are dozens of options. And every company is sure to promise that their solution will be the longest lasting and the most secure. If you have questions about digital data archiving, look here for helpful answers to questions like: What types of data archiving are the least expensive and the most secure? Should you use a marker to label the storage DVDs? How long will a backup CD or DVD last?
Question: How long will a backup or data archive CD or DVD last?
Answer: Most experts agree that data that has been properly burned to a DVD or CD will last at least 75 years. Some experts say that if the discs are stored out of heat and direct light, the data will be able to be retrieved for up to 200 years (assuming there are still CD Rom drives in computers). This doesn't mean that you won't ever have to worry about converting this archive to another technology in 25 years, however, since technology may obsolete the CD and DVD in the future.
Question: What types of data archiving are the least expensive and the most secure?
Answer: DVDs and CDs remain the most secure type of inexpensive data archiving solutions, although there are many other options that offer significant levels of security also. However, online data storage is generally discouraged for storing any type of sensitive information due to the possibility of the information getting into the wrong hands.
Question: Should I use a standard fine tip marker or sticky labels to label the storage DVDs?
Answer: No! You should never use either of these labeling options, as they can ruin the storage disc. You should use a felt-tip permanent marker (one that is non solvent-based) to label your data archive discs.
Question: Is it better to store discs horizontally or vertically?
Answer: For long-term storage of CDs or DVDs containing important archived information, you should store the discs vertically (like a book) in a plastic case. Storing discs horizontally can damage the files if you are storing them for a long time (more than five years).
Question: How much data can you store on a Blue Ray Disc or DVD? How much can a CD hold?
Answer: Blue Ray discs are the winners when it comes to ultra dense storage capacity for visual data archiving (such as videos), although CDs store more overall; Blue Ray discs store 50 MB (both sides), while DVDs store 9.4 MB per disc (both sides), and CD-R discs store 700 MB.
