this post was submitted on 24 Sep 2025
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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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Compression formats are just as susceptible to bitrot as any other file. The filesystem is where you want to start if you're discussing archival purposes. All of the modern filesystems will support error correction, so using BTRFS or ZFS with proper configuration is what you're looking for to prevent files from getting corrupted.
That being said, if you store something on a medium and then don't use said medium (lock it in a safe or whatever), then the chances you'll end up with corrupted files approaches 0%. Bitrot and general file corruption happens as the bits on a disk are shifted around, so by not using that disk, the likelihood this will happen is nearly 0.
Bitrot happens even when sitting around. Magnetic domains flip. SSD cells leak electrons.
Reading and rewriting with an ECC system is the only way to prevent bit rot. It's particularly critical for SSDs.