What does 'data integrity' refer to?

Data integrity refers to the accuracy and consistency of data throughout its lifecycle. It encompasses the maintenance of the quality of data, ensuring that it remains correct, reliable, and usable for its intended purpose. High data integrity means the data has not been altered in unauthorized ways and that it is stored and maintained properly, including during transfer and storage. This concept is crucial in various fields such as database management, cybersecurity, and data analysis, as it underpins the validity of the conclusions drawn from that data.

The other choices, while related to data management, do not capture the full essence of data integrity. For instance, the amount of data processed by a server pertains to performance metrics rather than the quality of the data itself. The diversity of data types addresses the variety of information but does not speak to its accuracy or consistency. Lastly, the relevance of data to business operations is important for decision-making but does not concern the integrity of the data itself. Thus, understanding data integrity as accuracy and consistency is vital for maintaining high-quality information systems.