Azure Blob Storage Archive Tier for Backup and Restore

Question

Hi,

We want to back up historical files to Azure Storage. We rarely use this data, so it’s not an issue if restoration takes time. I think Azure Blob Archive tier might fit our requirements. Could it be confirmed whether the same data structure can be maintained while backing up and restoring from Azure Blob? Note: There are millions of files in many subfolders, including long path files and directories.

If this is possible, has Microsoft suggested any recommended diagram for rehydration from the archive tier during the restore process?

Answer 1

Hello MJ-1983

Welcome to Microsoft Q&A Forum. Thanks for posting your query here!

I understand that you would like to back up historical files to Azure Storage and seek confirmation regarding the ability to preserve the same data structure during the backup and restoration processes from Azure Blob.

Yes, Azure Blob Archive can preserve the same data structure as your original files. Azure Blob Storage maintains the hierarchical structure of your files (folders and subfolders) when uploading data. This means that the same folder structure will be replicated within your Azure Blob storage account. Azure Blob Storage supports long file and directory paths, so you should not encounter any issues with your specific data structure.

We recommend you adhere to the steps outlined below on Rehydration Process.

1. When you need to access data from the Archive tier, you initiate a rehydration request. This process moves the data from the offline Archive tier to the online Hot tier.
2. Rehydration times can vary depending on the amount of data being rehydrated.
3. Transfer data to Azure Blob Storage using tools like AzCopy, Azure Data Factory, or other supported methods. Maintain the original folder structure during upload.  
4. After initial upload, tier the data to the Archive tier for cost optimization.

When data is needed Initiate a rehydration request through the Azure portal, Azure CLI, PowerShell, or the Azure Storage REST API and Specify the blobs or containers to be rehydrated. Once rehydration is complete, the data becomes accessible in the Hot tier.

Pre-requisites

Please be informed that Rehydration can take some time, so plan accordingly. While Archive Storage is cost-effective for long-term storage, rehydration costs should be factored into your overall storage costs. Azure Blob Storage provides high durability and availability for your data.

Additional Information: Documentation on Blob rehydration from the archive tier: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/storage/blobs/archive-rehydrate-overview

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