Microsoft is Working to Revolutionize Long-Term Data Storage

Considering the amount of data created on a daily basis, there will eventually come a time when the amount of data will outweigh our ability to store it. The technology giants at Microsoft are taking the initiative to find a solution to this dilemma, and they are working with the University of Southampton in England to make this vision come to life.

One project on their radar for the future is Project Silica, a method of storing data using quartz glass. The theory here is that the storage medium can allow for a long-term, high-density storage solution that can stand strong in the face of environmental challenges and the cruel, slow, unflinching march of time.

Consider what we know about your typical methods of data storage, hard drives and magnetic tape. They both have their shortcomings, chiefly in the form of long-term data retention and durability. Silica glass, however, can potentially store data for much longer and withstand harsh environments that hard drives and magnetic tape could only dream of. The technology, which is incredibly interesting, uses femtosecond lasers to encode data into tiny glass discs that create three-dimensional structures inside the glass itself.

Here are some of the advantages that Project Silica includes:

• Durability: Silica glass can withstand a ton of punishment in terms of heat, humidity, and radiation, making it an ideal solution for long-term storage.
• Density: Since the density of data stored on silica glass is so much higher than normal, it makes for a great compact storage medium.
• Longevity: Project Silica has a goal of creating a storage system that can last for centuries, allowing it to preserve information that could be lost to time.
• Energy efficiency: Once the data has been etched into the glass, it no longer needs a constant supply of power, making for an efficient method of data storage.

While Project Silica is still in its research and development phase, it has also been tested with a proof-of-concept, showing that the future of this technology could very well become a reality. However, it might be some time before it is practical and commonplace. In the meantime, we can help you with any of your current data storage needs, and you can trust us to stay on top of the industry. To learn more, call us at (703) 821-8200.