Glossary
Key Forumera terms and concepts explained.

Archive

An archive is a read-only snapshot of older threads that preserves important discussions while keeping them separate from active content.

Last updated: 1/2/2026

Archive

An archive is a read‑only snapshot of older threads that preserves important discussions while keeping them separate from active content. Archived threads remain searchable and linkable, but they no longer appear in regular board views or accept new replies.

What is an archive in Forumera?

In Forumera, archiving is a way to manage thread lifecycle:

  • Active threads appear in board listings and can receive new replies.
  • Archived threads are frozen snapshots that preserve the conversation as it was at a specific point in time.
  • Archived content remains readable and searchable, but does not clutter active discussions.

Archiving helps forums stay focused on current topics while preserving valuable historical context.

When to archive threads

Good candidates for archiving include:

  • Completed discussions. Threads where the question was answered or the issue was resolved.
  • Outdated information. Threads that contain information that is no longer current but still has historical value.
  • Reference material. Important guides or announcements that should remain accessible but not dominate current views.
  • Old announcements. Past updates that are no longer relevant but worth preserving.

Archiving is different from deleting – archived threads remain part of the forum's knowledge base, just separated from active content.

How archiving appears in the UI

Archived threads typically:

  • Appear in a separate "Archive" view or section.
  • Show a clear indicator that they are archived.
  • Display the date when they were archived.
  • Remain searchable through the forum's search function.
  • Can be linked to directly, preserving URLs.

Members can still read archived threads, but they cannot reply or modify them.

Best practices for archiving

  • Archive consistently. Set clear criteria for when threads should be archived (e.g., after 6 months of inactivity, or when marked as resolved).
  • Preserve important context. Archive threads that contain valuable information, even if they are no longer active.
  • Make archives discoverable. Ensure members can find archived content through search or dedicated archive views.
  • Document archive policies. Let members know what gets archived and why, so they understand the forum's content lifecycle.
  • Thread – the discussion that gets archived.
  • Board – the area where threads live before being archived.