Which step is not part of the first three steps of the data life cycle but occurs later when data is no longer used regularly and is stored to reduce costs and complexity?

Archiving is the step that occurs later in the data life cycle when data is no longer actively used but needs to be retained for long-term storage, often for compliance or historical purposes. This process helps organizations reduce costs and complexity by moving infrequently accessed data to lower-cost storage solutions, while also ensuring that valuable information remains accessible if needed in the future.

The first three steps of the data life cycle typically involve the creation of data, usage of that data, and storage for operational purposes. Archiving takes place after these initial steps, as it specifically deals with data that is transitioning from active use to a more passive state, thus distinguishing it from the earlier phases of the life cycle. This makes archiving a distinct process that serves to manage data over the longer term, rather than focusing on immediate operations.