Why Archival Standards Are Being Updated for the Optical Age

The world of data storage and archival is undergoing a profound shift, one that is advancing rapidly into the optical age. With an increasing amount of valuable information being generated daily, the need for secure, long-term backup solutions has never been greater. OpticalBackup, a leader in the data storage industry, is at the forefront of this shift, providing innovative solutions that align with the evolving archival standards.

**The Evolution of Archival Standards**

Historically, archival standards were primarily focused on the physical preservation of documents and artifacts. However, with the digital revolution, these standards have had to adapt. This adaptation has led to a focus on the digitization of records and the use of cloud-based storage solutions.

However, cloud backup is not without its risks. Vulnerabilities such as data breaches and loss of access due to network issues are real threats that can lead to significant data loss. Recognizing these risks, international organizations like ISO and UNESCO have been working on updating archival standards to better address the complex landscape of digital data preservation.

In response to these changes, ISO recently revised its standard for the long-term preservation of electronic document-based information, ISO 14721:2012 [^1^]. This standard now emphasizes the importance of using offline backup methods to protect vital data from online threats.

Similarly, UNESCO has issued recommendations for the preservation of digital heritage, highlighting the need for “immutable backup” – the ability to store data in a way that it cannot be altered or deleted [^2^].

**The Rise of Optical Backup**

Optical backup solutions like those provided by OpticalBackup are perfectly aligned with these updated archival standards. Optical discs offer several key advantages over traditional backup methods.

Firstly, they provide a long-term backup solution that is not vulnerable to the same risks as online storage. Data stored on optical discs is immune to cyberattacks and can be easily retrieved even if network access is lost.

Secondly, optical discs offer an “immutable backup” solution. Once data is written on the disc, it cannot be altered or deleted, providing an additional layer of security for important data.

Lastly, optical backup allows for easy scalability. Whether you need to store a few gigabytes or several petabytes of data, OpticalBackup solutions can be scaled to meet your needs.

**OpticalBackup and the Future of Archival**

OpticalBackup is committed to providing solutions that meet the evolving needs of archivists, IT managers, and other professionals in need of secure, long-term storage. Our solutions align with the latest archival standards and offer an unparalleled level of security and reliability.

Whether you’re in healthcare, finance, or any other industry where data preservation is critical, OpticalBackup can provide a solution that meets your needs. Visit our blog to learn more about the benefits of optical backup and how it can help secure your valuable data.

[^1^]: https://www.iso.org/standard/57284.html
[^2^]: https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000227431

With the world moving swiftly into the optical age, it’s time to update your backup and archival strategies. Trust OpticalBackup to guide you into this new era of data storage and preservation. Try OpticalBackup today.