Which storage solution is ideal for long-term data retention that is accessed infrequently?

Cold storage is the ideal solution for long-term data retention that is accessed infrequently. This type of storage is specifically designed for data that does not require immediate access and is typically less expensive than other storage solutions. Cold storage can include tape drives, optical disks, or even a cloud provider's cold storage options, which allow organizations to store large volumes of data that may need to be retained for compliance or archival purposes but don't need to be accessed regularly.

Using cold storage helps organizations save on costs, as it utilizes lower-tier resources that are optimized for infrequent access rather than high-speed data retrieval. This is essential for scenarios such as backup storage, long-term archiving data, or any other use case where data can remain untouched for extended periods.

In contrast, other storage options are tailored for different use cases; for example, SSD storage provides high-speed access and lower latency, making it ideal for everyday use or performance-sensitive applications. Cloud storage is versatile and can include various storage classes, but it encompasses both hot and cold storage solutions. In-memory storage focuses on data that requires rapid access and is typically used for high-performance applications that need quick data processing. Therefore, cold storage stands out as the most suitable option for long-term retention of rarely accessed