Local Media

Local storage media, like external hard drives, are considered "fragile media" because external drives need to be operated every few months to prevent seizure of the internal mechanics. They are susceptible to variations in temperature and humidity, and should be replaced every three years. If using local storage media of any kind, be sure to duplicate data on two or three storage devices and store them in geographically separate locations.

M-disc

Millenniata disc (M-disc) is a promising, low-cost storage option that will reliably preserve data for more than 30 years, and is projected to last up to 100 years with no data loss. If possible, dedicate funding for an M-disc burner and discs. M-discs can be stored in a room temperature environment in a house or business with no loss of data.

M-discs are an additional layer of storage security that far surpass the long-term capabilities of external hard drives, magnetic tapes (VHS) or other fragile media storage and they do not require extensive care and feeding.

Note: M-discs store data. You will need to preserve the equipment that writes (burns) the data onto the M-disc and the software for accessing the files on the M-disc. M-disc is a tool in the arsenal of digital preservation, but it should not be the only storage tool. If you use M-discs to archive data, employ the best practices of multiple copies in geographically dispersed locations.

LTO

Linear Tape-Open (LTO) is a low cost, open source, data tape storage that is reliable for 15 - 30 years. The 8th generation LTO Ultrium (2017) can store up to 12 TB on a single cartridge. Most LTO software provides a graphic user interface to drag and drop files to a logical storage directory for ease of use. As the technology continues to advance, you will need to migrate your materials periodically (every 5 years or so) to newer cartridges. LTO cartridges can be stored in any cool, protected space like a home or business office. Remember to employ the best practices of multiple copies in geographically dispersed locations.