Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) Practice Exam

What happens to a blob while it is in Archive storage?

1. It is accessible for reading and modifications

2. It can only be read, but not modified

3. It is offline and cannot be read or changed

4. It is still available to be copied and modified

The correct answer is: It is offline and cannot be read or changed

The correct answer indicates that when a blob is in Archive storage, it is essentially offline. This means that the data stored in Archive storage is not readily accessible for immediate reading or modifications. This storage tier is designed for infrequently accessed data that can tolerate some delay in retrieval time, making it cost-effective for long-term storage while minimizing overhead costs. Moving a blob to Archive storage typically involves a deliberate process of extraction and retrieval, thus there's an implication that it is not usable in its current state until it is moved back to an online storage tier. Once you need to access the data, you would initiate a retrieval process, which can take time as it is not being actively maintained in an accessible state. While the other options suggest some level of accessibility or modification, Archive storage is specifically designed to prioritize cost savings over immediate access, making them inconsistent with the nature of this storage solution.