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Data at rest is information saved in persistent storage, such as a device, database, cloud service, or backup. The term describes where the information is in its lifecycle—not whether it is encrypted. Data at rest is distinct from data moving between systems and data being actively processed.
What “data at rest” means
Data is at rest when it has been retained in storage rather than actively transferred or processed. Microsoft’s Azure Well-Architected guidance describes it as information kept in storage objects. The idea covers far more than files left unused on a computer: it includes saved information on devices, removable media, cloud storage, databases, and backup media.
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“At rest” does not mean the data must be idle. It may be available for reading or later processing while still being stored. The label identifies a state of the information, not a security setting.
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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →How it differs from data in transit and data in use
- Data at rest is retained in storage.
- Data in transit is moving between components, locations, or programs.
- Data in use is being actively processed, typically in memory.
These are useful views of a system, not mutually exclusive labels for an entire application. A file can be stored on a disk, read into memory for editing, then sent over a network. Each stage calls for protections suited to that state; storage encryption alone does not protect information while it is being transmitted or processed. Microsoft’s data-protection overview uses the same distinction.
#1 Best Overall
- Get NVMe solid state performance with up to 1050MB/s read and 1000MB/s write speeds in a portable, high-capacity drive(1) (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device & other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Up to 3-meter drop protection and IP65 water and dust resistance mean this tough drive can take a beating(3) (Previously rated for 2-meter drop protection and IP55 rating. Now qualified for the higher, stated specs.)
- Use the handy carabiner loop to secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind.
- Help keep private content private with the included password protection featuring 256‐bit AES hardware encryption.(3)
- Easily manage files and automatically free up space with the SanDisk Memory Zone app.(5). Non-Operating Temperature -20°C to 85°C
Examples of data at rest
- A document saved on a desktop, laptop, tablet, or phone.
- Email and attachments retained in mailbox folders.
- Files stored in cloud services such as SharePoint or OneDrive.
- Persisted cloud disks, databases, object storage, or table storage.
- Copies saved to backup media or removable storage, including external drives.
A message being delivered is in transit; after it is saved in a mailbox, that stored copy is data at rest. The same information can therefore occupy different states at different points in its lifecycle.
Does data at rest have to be encrypted?
No. Encryption is a common way to protect stored information, but it is not part of the definition. NIST’s SP 800-111 addresses storage encryption for end-user computers, consumer devices, and removable media; it treats encryption as a protection for storage, not as what makes data “at rest.”
Rank #2
- Solid state performance with up to 800MB/s read speeds in a portable drive. (Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Back up your content and memories on a storage solution that fits seamlessly into your mobile lifestyle.
- Take it with you on your adventures—up to two-meter drop protection means this durable drive can take a beating. (Based on internal testing.)
- Secure it to your belt loop or backpack for extra peace of mind thanks to the tough rubber hook.
- From Sandisk, a brand professional photographers trust to take on assignments.
Encryption at rest encodes stored data so it cannot be read without the appropriate key. It can reduce exposure if someone obtains storage media but lacks the keys. It is one layer of defense, not a replacement for physical security, access controls, auditing, or protections for data in transit and in use.
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Storage services can differ in where encryption happens and who controls the keys. A provider may manage keys by default; some services offer customer-managed keys, and some support client-side encryption before upload. These are implementation choices, not universal requirements or guarantees. Microsoft’s Azure encryption guidance and Google Cloud’s default-encryption documentation describe provider-specific approaches.
Rank #3
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- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition no software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
When evaluating a particular service, check its current documentation and configuration for the exact service and region. In particular, establish who can use or revoke keys, which copies are covered, and how key access is controlled and audited.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to check when choosing a storage-encryption approach
- Where encryption happens: in the storage platform, in the application, or on the client before upload.
- Who controls the keys: identify who can access them and what happens if they are revoked or lost.
- Which copies are covered: verify treatment of backups, snapshots, caches, and logs as well as the primary data.
- How key access is governed: review identity permissions and audit records.
- Operational impact: account for recovery procedures, complexity, and possible performance or latency tradeoffs.
Microsoft recommends using native storage-encryption features, protecting backups to the same level as source data, restricting key access, and keeping data separate from its keys. Capabilities vary by service, so a general provider statement is not a substitute for checking the specific storage product.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Easily store and access 5TB of content on the go with the Seagate portable drive, a USB external hard Drive
- Designed to work with Windows or Mac computers, this external hard drive makes backup a snap just drag and drop
- To get set up, connect the portable hard drive to a computer for automatic recognition software required
- This USB drive provides plug and play simplicity with the included 18 inch USB 3.0 cable
- The available storage capacity may vary.
Rank #4
- NEARLY 2X FASTER THAN OUR PREVIOUS GENERATION(8) – move 1,000 high-res photos in under 60 seconds(6) with up to 2000MB/s transfer speeds(2).
- IP65 RATING AND UP TO 3M DROP PROTECTION(3) – protects against spills and drops.
- POCKET-SIZED – fits easily in pockets and small bags.
- SPACE TO OWN YOUR AI CONTENT – speed and capacity to download your high-res clips and photo edits.
- 256-BIT AES ENCRYPTION(4) – helps keep private files secure with password protection.
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