What does the term “Data at Rest” refer to?

The term “Data at Rest” specifically refers to data that is stored and not actively being accessed, processed, or transmitted. This is the state of data when it resides in storage devices, such as hard drives, databases, or backup tapes, and it is not being used for processing tasks. It is significant in the context of security because this type of data needs protection from unauthorized access, breaches, or loss while it is sitting idle. Understanding this term helps in implementing appropriate security measures that focus on protecting sensitive information that is stored but not actively engaged in operations.

Other materials may include data being processed or data transmitted over a network, which do not fit the definition of "Data at Rest." Additionally, while archived data may seem similar, archiving often implies a specific storage method that may include both active and inactive data, but the general term "Data at Rest" encompasses all stored data.