http://www.itworld.com/Tech/2987/031029datadouble/index.html
I tend to be somewhat bullish about IT, but I confess this article surprised me: the amount of stored data has doubled in the past three years, according to a UCB report -- the total in 2002 was 5 exabytes [or 500,000 Libraries of Congress], most stored on magnetic devices.
No wonder that petabyte storage for small firms and well-heeled individuals is becoming a reality -- data growth at that level makes for a quantity/quality shift. With a doubling rate of every three years, the idea of anyone ever having "universal knowledge" becomes risible.
One dark site -- magnetic storage is vulnerable -- a large and tempting target for those who would create massive social disruption.
Posted by jho at November 6, 2003 08:21 AM