What is the proper method to archive application logs for seven years while minimizing costs?

To effectively archive application logs for seven years while minimizing costs, creating a Cloud sink with a specified storage destination is the best approach. This method allows you to set up a mechanism that automatically directs the logs to a more cost-effective storage service, such as Cloud Storage, where they can be retained for long periods without incurring excessive expense.

Cloud sinks are particularly beneficial because they can filter logs based on various criteria, ensuring that only the necessary logs are retained. This capability optimizes storage usage and controls costs, as you can choose a storage class that aligns with your access needs, such as Nearline or Coldline, which are more economical for infrequently accessed data.

In contrast, creating a dedicated Cloud Storage bucket for direct log storage may not incorporate the filtering and management capabilities offered by a Cloud sink, potentially resulting in higher storage costs for unnecessary logs. Developing an App Engine application for log retrieval and storage introduces unnecessary complexity and ongoing operational costs that could be avoided with a simpler storage solution. Setting up an export configuration to Cloud Pub/Sub is more aligned with streaming and real-time processing rather than long-term archival solutions and may incur additional costs for message delivery and retention.

Choosing the Cloud sink option aligns with best practices for cost-effective log management, particularly when compliance