How to archive files so they'll stay around for years

December 19, 2013

Daisky wants to store files in a way that will make them available to future generations. People worry a lot about archiving digital files for long periods of time. The concern is legitimate. I wouldn't go as far as the people who insist that burned CDs and DVDs (the kind you buy blank and write files to on your PC's drive) last for only two to five years. But it is true that these burnable discs use unstable light-sensitive dyes, and will probably not be readable in 20 years. And if they are, will you still have optical drives for reading them? Or software that can read the files? [Email your tech questions to answer@pcworld.com.] It's impossible to answer any of these questions definitively at this time. But a few precautions and educated guesses will improve the likelihood that your great-grandchildren will enjoy your wedding photos. To read this article in full or to leave a comment, please click here

Link: http://www.pcworld.com/article/2079424/how-to-archive-files-so-theyll-stay-around-for-years.html#tk.rss_howto