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An application uses Azure Blob Storage to store millions of small log files (average size 10 KB). These files are rarely accessed after 7 days but must be retained for compliance for 5 years. The company wants to minimize storage costs while ensuring data availability for audit purposes. Retrieving the data for audits can tolerate delays of several hours. Which access tier is MOST appropriate for these log files after 7 days?
- APremium
- BCool
- CHot
- DArchive
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Archive
The Archive tier is the most cost-effective storage option for rarely accessed data with flexible latency requirements (hours). Given that the log files are rarely accessed after 7 days, but must be retained for 5 years, and can tolerate retrieval delays for audits, the Archive tier is the optimal choice for cost savings.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Premium is a performance tier for high-transaction workloads, completely unsuitable for rarely accessed archival data.
- B. Cool tier is for infrequently accessed data, but Archive is even more cost-effective for data that can tolerate longer retrieval times.
- C. Hot tier is for frequently accessed data and would be too expensive for rarely accessed log files.
Azure Blob Storage Archive Tier
The lowest-cost storage tier for rarely accessed data, with the highest latency for retrieval (hours to retrieve).
- Lowest storage cost, highest retrieval cost and latency.
- Ideal for long-term backups, archival data, and compliance.
- Rehydration (moving to hotter tier) is required before access.
Memory trick: Think of tiers as temperature: Hot for active, Cool for infrequent, Archive for deep freeze.