What is the difference between storing data “nearline” and “archiving” data?

The newly designed “Data Archiving Process” (DAP) can be used for storing data “nearline” in SAP partner applications such as SAND/DNA for SAP NetWeaver BI 7.0 and/or for archiving data traditionally via ADK. Both processes involve deleting the selected data within SAP NetWeaver BI 7.0, but only “nearline” data will still be transparently accessible via BEx or other SAP-certified front-end tools.

Since “nearline” data can be accessed by individual users as well as used within Data Transfer Processes (DTP) to load new “online” InfoCubes or DSO’s, the NLS Interface and application can play a very important role within the SAP NetWeaver BI 7.0 architecture.