Microsoft’s research team has achieved a breakthrough in data storage technology by developing a glass-based solution. This innovation employs high-energy lasers to etch encoded data onto three-dimensional borosilicate glass. Remarkably, a single square glass piece, measuring just 12 centimeters in width and 2 millimeters in thickness, can store an impressive 4.8 terabytes of data. This data remains intact for up to 10,000 years when exposed to temperatures as high as 290℃, and its lifespan extends even further at room temperature.

Compared to traditional magnetic disks and hard drives, glass storage offers unparalleled advantages in terms of data security and durability. It requires virtually no maintenance, making it a highly reliable long-term storage solution. The research team prioritized practicality and cost-effectiveness by choosing borosilicate glass, a material that is both affordable and widely available.

While the processes of reading and writing data onto glass are complex, they can be efficiently decoded using advanced machine learning algorithms. However, it’s important to note that the glass storage system is non-rewritable, and the costs associated with reading and writing are relatively high. Consequently, this technology is not ideal for storing everyday information that requires frequent updates.

Instead, glass storage is perfectly suited for preserving scientific data that must remain unchanged for decades or even centuries. Its low preservation and maintenance costs make it an excellent choice for the permanent archiving of critical data backups, ensuring that valuable information is safeguarded for future generations.