====== How to Archive Files with Squirrel ======

[[https://www.smikar.com/squirrel-self-service-archiving/|Click here for more information about Squirrel Self Service Archiving on the official SmiKar website.]]

Squirrel makes archiving old or unneeded files simple for end users, directly from SharePoint.

This guide shows you how to archive a file using Squirrel’s Self Service Archiving feature.

===== What happens when you archive a file? =====

When you archive a file using Squirrel:

  * The file is automatically moved from SharePoint to long-term, low-cost storage.
  * A stub file replaces the original. This looks identical but contains a link to restore the file when needed.
  * The file no longer consumes space in your SharePoint quota.

===== Archiving a file =====

==== Step 1: Locate the file to archive ====

  * Navigate to the SharePoint site and document library where your file is stored.
  * Find the file you want to archive.

==== Step 2: Click the Archive button ====

  * In the SharePoint document library, locate the **Archive** button in the file row.
  * Click the **Archive** button.

==== Step 3: Confirm the archive request ====

  * You may be asked to confirm your request.
  * Click **Yes** or **Confirm** to proceed.

==== Step 4: File is archived ====

  * The file will be removed from SharePoint and a stub file will appear in its place.
  * The stub file can later be used to restore the original file when required.

===== Notes =====

  * Archived files are securely stored and can be restored by clicking the stub file at any time.
  * Archiving helps free up valuable SharePoint storage space.
  * If you do not see the Archive button, your administrator may need to enable this feature for your site.

===== FAQ =====

**Q: Can I archive multiple files at once?**
  * This depends on how your administrator has configured Squirrel. Generally, archiving is performed one file at a time.

**Q: Where do archived files go?**
  * Archived files are securely stored in Azure Blob Storage archive location, but are available in the Squirrel System, which is configured by your IT team.

**Q: Can I still access archived files?**
  * Yes — simply open the stub file and use the restore link to bring the file back when needed.

**Q: What if I delete the stub file?**
  * If the stub file is deleted, your IT administrator can still restore the file from the archive.