# mass archiving

> (digital) archiving of very large numbers of files, data records, very large data volumes or big data (usually as a copy of an endangered web resource)

**Wikidata**: [Q133569389](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q133569389)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/mass-archiving

## Summary
Mass archiving refers to the digital archiving of very large numbers of files, data records, very large data volumes, or big data. This process is often undertaken to create a copy of an endangered web resource, ensuring its preservation. It is a specialized practice within the broader field of digital preservation.

## Key Facts
- **Definition:** Mass archiving is the (digital) archiving of very large numbers of files, data records, very large data volumes, or big data.
- **Primary Use Case:** It is usually performed as a copy of an endangered web resource.
- **Aliases:** It is also known as bulk archiving, massenhafte Archivierung, and Massendigitalarchivierung.
- **Classification:** Mass archiving is a subclass of archiving.
- **Broader Field:** It is a facet of digital preservation.
- **Opposite Concept:** Its opposite is mass deletion.
- **Related Process:** The class of mass archiving has batch processing as a part.

## FAQs
### Q: What is mass archiving?
A: Mass archiving is the digital practice of creating archives for extremely large quantities of files, data records, or big data. Its primary purpose often involves making copies of web resources that are at risk of being lost or becoming unavailable.

### Q: What are other terms for mass archiving?
A: Other terms used to refer to mass archiving include bulk archiving, massenhafte Archivierung, and Massendigitalarchivierung. These aliases describe the same process of large-scale digital data preservation.

### Q: How does mass archiving relate to digital preservation?
A: Mass archiving is a specific facet of digital preservation. It represents a key method within digital preservation strategies for handling and safeguarding extensive volumes of digital information, especially those at risk.

### Q: What is the opposite of mass archiving?
A: The direct opposite of mass archiving is mass deletion. While mass archiving focuses on preserving large quantities of data, mass deletion involves the removal or destruction of large data volumes.

### Q: What kind of processing is involved in mass archiving?
A: Mass archiving typically involves batch processing. This means that files or data records are processed in groups or batches rather than individually, which is essential for handling the very large volumes of data characteristic of mass archiving.

## Why It Matters
Mass archiving plays a critical role in the digital age by addressing the challenge of preserving vast and ever-growing quantities of digital information. In an environment where digital content can be ephemeral and vulnerable, mass archiving provides a systematic approach to safeguard valuable data. Its focus on "very large numbers of files, data records, very large data volumes or big data" highlights its necessity for institutions, governments, and organizations dealing with massive digital footprints. Crucially, its application "usually as a copy of an endangered web resource" underscores its importance in combating digital decay and ensuring the long-term accessibility of online cultural, historical, and scientific heritage. As a facet of digital preservation, mass archiving is fundamental to preventing the loss of digital memory, supporting research, maintaining public records, and ensuring future generations can access the digital legacy of today. Without it, the sheer volume of digital information would overwhelm traditional archiving methods, leading to irreparable loss of critical data.

## Notable For
- **Handling Extreme Scale:** Specifically designed for the archiving of "very large numbers of files, data records, very large data volumes or big data," distinguishing it from general archiving practices.
- **Preservation of Endangered Web Resources:** Frequently employed to create copies of "endangered web resources," highlighting its critical role in web archiving and digital heritage preservation.
- **Facet of Digital Preservation:** Represents a specialized and essential component within the broader field of digital preservation, focusing on large-scale challenges.
- **Direct Opposite of Mass Deletion:** Clearly defined by its purpose of preservation, standing in direct contrast to the destructive action of mass deletion.