Which practice ensures that all documents are securely stored and easily accessible?

Data encryption plays a crucial role in ensuring that documents are securely stored and easily accessible. Encryption transforms data into a secure format that is unreadable without the appropriate decryption key. This method not only protects the confidentiality of sensitive information from unauthorized access but also allows for easier retrieval by authorized users who possess the key or password.

While other practices like regular audits, paper filing systems, and digital backups each contribute to the management and security of documents, they do not directly address the dual needs of security and accessibility as effectively as encryption does. For instance, regular audits help ensure compliance and identify potential vulnerabilities but do not provide security measures themselves. Paper filing systems, while accessible, are often less secure and more vulnerable to physical damage or unauthorized access. Digital backups are essential for recovery purposes, but without encryption, the backed-up data remains exposed to risks. Thus, data encryption serves as the most comprehensive solution for securely storing documents while making them accessible to those authorized.