The cloud data lifecycle is a dynamic process encompassing data creation, management, and utilization within cloud computing environments. It begins with generating data from various sources, such as sensors, applications, and users, forming the raw material for subsequent stages. Data is then ingested into cloud infrastructure, which undergoes storage, processing, and analysis. Authorized users and applications access and share this data for insights and decision-making. Over time, data may be archived for long-term storage and regulatory compliance and, ultimately, securely destroyed when it’s no longer needed. This lifecycle framework ensures that data is effectively controlled while maintaining cloud security, compliance, and scalability.

What is Cloud Data Lifecycle?

The cloud data lifecycle encompasses the various phases that a specific piece of data undergoes, starting with its initial creation or capture and concluding with its eventual archival or deletion when it’s no longer needed. It maps out the entire journey that data takes, from its inception to its eventual removal, reflecting the complete spectrum of stages and actions involved in managing data over time. This concept is crucial for organizations to effectively handle and govern their data assets, ensuring they derive maximum value while adhering to data management and compliance requirements.