Microsoft Azure Data FundamentalsDescribe an analytics workload on AzureMedium
A data analytics team is building a new data warehouse on Azure. They have identified that a significant portion of their historical data, while important for compliance and occasional deep dives, is rarely accessed after the initial 30 days. This data needs to be retained for seven years. Which Azure storage tier offers the most cost-effective solution for this specific requirement?
- AArchive tier
- BPremium tier
- CCool tier
- DHot tier
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Archive tier
The Archive tier is designed for rarely accessed data with flexible latency requirements and is the most cost-effective option for long-term storage of data that is infrequently accessed, matching the scenario's needs perfectly.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Premium tier is for high-performance, low-latency workloads and would be prohibitively expensive for rarely accessed historical data.
- C. Cool tier is for infrequently accessed data, but the Archive tier is more cost-effective for data accessed only for compliance or occasional deep dives over seven years.
- D. Hot tier is for frequently accessed data and would be too expensive for rarely accessed historical data.
Azure Blob Storage Archive Tier
The most cost-effective tier for storing rarely accessed data with flexible latency requirements (hours) for retrieval. Ideal for long-term backups, archival, and compliance data.
- Lowest storage cost, but highest access and retrieval costs.
- Data can take several hours to retrieve (rehydrate) to a hot or cool tier.
- Suitable for data that is rarely accessed for extended periods, such as 7 years for compliance.
Memory trick: Hot for now, Cool for soon, Archive for later, Premium for speed.