Additionally, since storage systems such as tape libraries have low power consumption, the operational expense of storing data in an active archive is significantly reduced.

Active archives provide online access, searchability and retrieval of long-term data and enable virtually unlimited scalability to accommodate future growth.

Since an active archive is built around a cost-performance ratio, the performance standards of these systems vary significantly based on each individual implementation.

Many active archive components include features such as self-healing data within the software, versioning, encryption, and media health monitoring.

Current members/sponsors include Fujifilm, IBM, Iron Mountain, Quantum Corporation, Spectra Logic, Western Digital, and some others.