Using the SafeArchive system: TRAC-based auditing of LOCKSS

Abstract

The goals of SafeArchive are to make distributed replication easier, and to automate compliance with formal replication and storage policies. In this article, we describe the process of automated archival policy auditing in detail. First, we provide an overview of the SafeArchive system and we describe how a curator can use the tools to generate an archival policy schema and monitor it, simply. Second we identify specific TRAC criteria that can be verified automatically, and additional criteria that can be supported through integrated documentation. Third, we discuss the technical implementation of the system including the policy schema; how information used in the auditing process is obtained from a set of LOCKSS peers without modifying the LOCKSS trust model or configuration; and how the software is organized into components. ©2011 Society for Imaging Science and Technology.