arXiv is migrating its infrastructure from Cornell University servers to Google Cloud. This move aims to enhance arXiv's long-term sustainability, improve performance and scalability, and leverage Google's expertise in areas like security, storage, and machine learning. The transition will happen in phases, starting with a pilot program. arXiv emphasizes its commitment to remaining open and community-driven, with its operational control staying independent. They are also actively hiring for several roles, including software engineers and system administrators, to support this significant change.
Digital archivists play a crucial role in preserving valuable public data, which is increasingly at risk due to the ephemeral nature of digital platforms and storage media. They employ a variety of strategies, including format migration, emulation, and web archiving, to combat issues like link rot, software and hardware obsolescence, and intentional deletion. These professionals face significant challenges, including the sheer volume of data, rapidly evolving technologies, and securing adequate funding and resources. Ultimately, their work ensures the long-term accessibility and usability of vital information for researchers, journalists, and the public, safeguarding historical records and holding power accountable.
Hacker News users discussed the challenges of digital archiving, focusing on format obsolescence and the lack of consistent, long-term funding. Several commenters highlighted the importance of plain text formats and emphasized the need for active maintenance and migration of data, rather than relying on any single "future-proof" solution. The complexities of copyright in a digital world were also mentioned, with concerns about orphan works and the chilling effect restrictive licenses might have on preservation efforts. Some users suggested decentralized, community-driven approaches to archiving, while others expressed skepticism about long-term digital preservation altogether, pointing to the inevitable decay of storage media and the constant evolution of technology. The difficulty of predicting future needs and the potential for valuable data to be lost due to seemingly insignificant choices made today were recurring themes. A few commenters shared personal experiences with data loss and stressed the need for robust, accessible backups.
Summary of Comments ( 106 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43726640
Hacker News users discuss arXiv's move to Google Cloud, expressing concerns about potential vendor lock-in and the implications for long-term data preservation. Some question the cost-effectiveness of the transition, suggesting Cornell's existing infrastructure might have been sufficient with modernization. Others highlight the potential benefits of Google's expertise in scaling and reliability, but emphasize the importance of maintaining open access and avoiding proprietary formats. The need for transparency regarding the terms of the agreement with Google is also a recurring theme, alongside worries about potential censorship or influence from Google on arXiv's content. Several commenters note the irony of a pre-print server initially designed to bypass traditional publishing now relying on a large tech company.
The Hacker News post titled "arXiv moving from Cornell servers to Google Cloud" generated several comments discussing the implications of this transition. Many commenters focused on the potential benefits and drawbacks of moving to a cloud infrastructure.
Several users expressed concerns about Google's potential influence over arXiv's content and operations. One commenter worried about the possibility of Google exerting censorship or prioritizing certain research based on its own interests. Another questioned whether Google might eventually try to monetize arXiv, impacting its open-access nature. The potential for vendor lock-in with Google was also raised as a long-term risk.
On the other hand, some commenters saw the move as a positive step. They argued that Google Cloud's infrastructure could offer improved performance, scalability, and reliability compared to Cornell's existing setup. This could lead to faster download speeds, increased uptime, and better overall user experience. The potential for enhanced search capabilities and integration with other Google services was also mentioned as a potential advantage.
Several comments delved into the technical aspects of the migration. One user with experience in academic computing discussed the challenges of managing a large-scale digital library and suggested that Google's expertise in this area could be beneficial. Another pointed out the potential complexities of migrating the existing data and ensuring seamless operation during the transition.
Some commenters speculated on the reasons behind arXiv's decision, suggesting factors such as cost savings, access to more advanced technology, and the need for specialized expertise that Google could provide.
A few users expressed nostalgia for Cornell's long-standing stewardship of arXiv, while acknowledging the increasing demands and complexities of maintaining the platform in the current technological landscape.
The discussion also touched on broader themes related to the role of large tech companies in academic research and the importance of preserving the open and accessible nature of scientific knowledge. Some users expressed concerns about the increasing concentration of power in the hands of a few large corporations, while others argued that collaboration with such companies could be beneficial for the advancement of science.