Definition: The accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data throughout its lifecycle. Data integrity ensures that data remains unchanged from its original creation to its final retrieval and is not compromised by unauthorized or unintended modifications.
Key Features:
Immutability: Data remains consistent and unchanged over time.
Validation: Mechanisms to verify data for correctness and consistency.
Security: Protection against unauthorized access or manipulation.
Common Applications:
Databases: Ensuring stored data remains correct and consistent.
Data Transfer: Ensuring data is not altered during transmission.
Backup and Archiving: Ensuring the integrity of stored data copies.