# write once read many

> data storage device in which information, once written, cannot be modified

**Wikidata**: [Q1778670](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1778670)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Write_once_read_many)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/write-once-read-many

## Summary
Write once read many (WORM) is a data storage device where information can be written once but cannot be modified afterward. It is commonly used as an archival resource due to its write protection, ensuring data integrity. This technology includes formats like DVD-R and DVD+R, which are part of the broader class of programmable read-only memory.

## Key Facts
- A subclass of computer storage media, specifically designed for write-once, read-many operations.
- Includes specific formats such as DVD-R and DVD+R, introduced by the DVD+RW Alliance in 2002.
- Known by aliases such as WORM, write-once medium, and write-once storage.
- Used as an archival resource due to its write protection feature.
- Part of the programmable read-only memory class, where bits are set by blowing fuses or antifuses.
- Has a sitelink count of 15, indicating its relevance in digital storage discussions.
- Available in multiple languages on Wikipedia, including English, Japanese, and Korean.
- Includes a notable characteristic: write protection applied to "used good" storage media.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary use of write once read many storage?
A: Write once read many storage is primarily used as an archival resource due to its write protection, ensuring data cannot be modified after writing.

### Q: What are some common formats of write once read many storage?
A: Common formats include DVD-R and DVD+R, which are part of the DVD±R family of storage media.

### Q: How is write once read many different from other storage types?
A: Unlike rewritable storage, write once read many cannot be modified after the initial write, making it ideal for archival purposes.

### Q: Who introduced DVD+R as a write once read many format?
A: DVD+R was introduced by the DVD+RW Alliance in 2002.

### Q: What is the significance of write protection in write once read many storage?
A: Write protection ensures data integrity by preventing any modifications after the initial write, making it suitable for long-term archival.

## Why It Matters
Write once read many (WORM) technology is significant in the field of data storage due to its ability to ensure data integrity and immutability. Unlike rewritable media, WORM storage cannot be altered after the initial write, making it ideal for archival purposes such as legal documents, medical records, and financial transactions. This feature is crucial in environments where data must remain unchanged over time, such as government agencies, healthcare institutions, and financial sectors. Additionally, WORM technology includes specific formats like DVD-R and DVD+R, which have been widely adopted for their reliability and ease of use. The write protection characteristic of WORM storage ensures that data remains secure and unaltered, providing a reliable solution for long-term data preservation.

## Notable For
- Being a subclass of programmable read-only memory, where bits are set by blowing fuses or antifuses.
- Including specific formats like DVD-R and DVD+R, introduced by the DVD+RW Alliance in 2002.
- Serving as an archival resource due to its write protection feature.
- Having a high sitelink count of 15, indicating its relevance in digital storage discussions.
- Being available in multiple languages on Wikipedia, reflecting its global adoption and recognition.

## Body
### Classification and Types
Write once read many (WORM) is a subclass of computer storage media, specifically designed for write-once, read-many operations. It includes specific formats such as DVD-R and DVD+R, which are part of the DVD±R family of storage media. These formats were introduced by the DVD+RW Alliance in 2002 and have since become widely adopted for their reliability and ease of use.

### Technical Characteristics
WORM storage is part of the programmable read-only memory class, where bits are set by blowing fuses or antifuses. This technology ensures that once data is written, it cannot be modified, providing a high level of data integrity. The write protection feature is applied to "used good" storage media, further enhancing its reliability.

### Usage and Applications
WORM storage is primarily used as an archival resource due to its write protection, ensuring data cannot be modified after writing. This makes it ideal for applications such as legal documents, medical records, and financial transactions, where data must remain unchanged over time. The technology has a sitelink count of 15, indicating its relevance in digital storage discussions.

### Global Recognition
Write once read many is available in multiple languages on Wikipedia, including English, Japanese, and Korean, reflecting its global adoption and recognition. The technology has been documented in various encyclopedias and academic sources, further solidifying its importance in the field of data storage.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Write once read many",
  "description": "Data storage device in which information, once written, cannot be modified",
  "sameAs": [
    "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q133454630",
    "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Write_once_read_many"
  ],
  "additionalType": "ComputerStorageMedia"
}

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. Wikibase TDKIV