What does emulation in digital preservation refer to?

Emulation in digital preservation refers to the process of imitating and recreating the original look and feel of a file or software environment. This technique is particularly significant in preserving digital artifacts that depend on specific hardware or software to function properly.

When digital materials, such as software applications or file formats, become obsolete due to evolving technology, emulation allows users to access and experience these materials as they were originally intended. By recreating the original operational environment, users can interact with digital content in a way that maintains its historical context and usability.

This is especially important in digital preservation, as it enables the continued access to cultural and historical materials that could otherwise become inaccessible if the original technology becomes outdated or unusable. Thus, emulation serves as a vital strategy for maintaining the integrity and authenticity of digital collections over time.