What is meant by 'data integrity'?

Data integrity refers to the accuracy and consistency of data over its lifecycle. This concept is crucial because it ensures that the data remains reliable and valid, which is essential for decision-making processes and maintaining trust in information systems. When data integrity is upheld, it means that data is not altered in unauthorized ways, remains free from corruption, and accurately reflects the intended values and information.

Maintaining data integrity involves various measures, such as validation checks, access controls to prevent unauthorized modifications, and error detection mechanisms. Ensuring that data is accurate means that any output, reports, or analyses derived from it will be trustworthy and actionable. As such, any breach or compromise of data integrity can lead to significant issues, including making incorrect decisions based on faulty data.

Other options, while important in a broader data management context, focus on different aspects. For instance, keeping data accessible at all times emphasizes availability, while ensuring secure storage relates more to confidentiality. Regular backups focus on recovery from data loss rather than maintaining the integrity of the data itself. These differing focuses highlight why ensuring data remains accurate and consistent is the essence of data integrity.