How does cloud tiering function in data management?

Cloud tiering in data management effectively optimizes storage by managing data based on its usage patterns. The correct choice elucidates how frequently accessed data, known as "hot" data, is directed to high-performance storage solutions like flash storage, which allows for quick access and response times. In contrast, "cold" data, which is less frequently accessed, is moved to more cost-effective storage options, such as cloud storage. This tiering process helps organizations efficiently balance performance and cost, ensuring that they utilize the most appropriate storage type for their data needs while maximizing resource efficiency.

Given this understanding, other choices do not accurately describe the cloud tiering function. For instance, storing all data on local drives would not leverage the benefits of cloud storage for less active data. The elimination of backup services is misleading since cloud tiering is focused on data placement rather than backup processes. Similarly, while data compression is a method used to save space, it is not the principle behind cloud tiering, which is about the strategic management of data based on access frequency.