Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about using the Wayback Machine and digital preservation.
General Questions
How do I use the Wayback Machine?
Enter a URL in the search box above to find archived versions. You can also use the calendar feature to browse specific dates.
How often are websites archived?
Websites are archived on a rolling basis through continuous crawls. High-priority sites may be archived more frequently, but this varies.
Technical Questions
What file formats are preserved?
We archive HTML, images, videos, and many other common web formats. Specialized formats may require specific crawlers.
Can I access mobile archives?
Yes, the Wayback Machine automatically serves mobile-optimized versions of websites as they were archived.
Legal Questions
What about copyright?
We follow a "notice and takedown" policy. If content doesn't belong to you and violates copyright, contact our team for removal.
Can I use the archives commercially?
Commercial use requires approval. For academic/research purposes, you need proper citations. See our policies for more details.
How You Can Help
How can I contribute to archiving?
You can submit sites for archiving via our Save Page Now tool. Large institutions can become official collection partners.
Can I donate physical media?
Yes! We accept donations of physical media like books, videos, and software. Contact our team for contribution guidelines.
Still Have Questions?
Check our policies for complete legal information and additional guidelines.
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