What does archiving files typically involve?

Archiving files typically involves copying files that are kept for reference but are not accessed regularly. This process allows organizations to store data that may still hold value but is not needed for day-to-day operations. Archiving helps manage storage space effectively while ensuring that important information is preserved for future reference or compliance purposes.

When files are archived, they are often moved to a location that is specifically designed for long-term data storage. This can also involve compressing the files to save space and may include applying specific metadata to aid in future retrieval. Archiving is crucial for maintaining historical records while optimizing access to active files that require frequent interaction.

In contrast, other activities such as creating new versions of active files pertain to version control rather than archiving. Making copies of files for regular access is more aligned with backup processes, where data needs to be readily available, while deleting older files permanently is a means of data cleansing, which is not related to the concept of archiving at all.