The action of retrieving a digital file from a remote server or storage location and simultaneously retaining the original, unaltered version at its source is a process commonly encountered when dealing with cloud storage or media management systems. For example, a photographer might retrieve a high-resolution image from a cloud backup to edit it locally, while the original, unedited image remains safely stored in the cloud.
This method provides several advantages, including data redundancy, version control, and preservation of archival-quality materials. Maintaining the source file ensures that a clean, unmodified copy always exists, safeguarding against data corruption, accidental alterations, or irreversible edits performed on the downloaded version. Historically, the practice reflects a shift from destructive editing workflows, where changes were made directly to the master copy, to non-destructive methods that prioritize preservation of the original.
