What kind of data can be considered as data at rest?

Data at rest refers to any data that is stored physically in any digital form (such as in databases, data warehouses, or file systems) and is not actively moving through the network. This includes files that are saved on hard disks, solid-state drives, or other storage media.

Files on a hard disk represent a classic example of data at rest because they remain in a fixed state until accessed or moved. This contrasts with data that is actively being transmitted or processed, such as streaming videos, email messages in transit, or network packets, which are in motion and not stored in a stable state. Data at rest is critical to consider when discussing data security practices, as it is often the target for breaches or unauthorized access, highlighting the importance of encryption and secure storage solutions.