Abstract: A method and apparatus for criterion-based retention of data object versions are disclosed. In the method and apparatus, a plurality of keys are sorted in accordance with an ordering scheme, whereby a key of the plurality of keys has an associated version of a data object and a timestamp. The key is inspected in accordance with the ordering scheme to determine based at least in part on the timestamp whether a criterion for performing an action on the associated version of the data object is satisfied. If the criterion is satisfied, a marker key is added to the plurality of keys, whereby the marker key precedes the inspected key according to the ordering scheme and indicates that the criterion is satisfied.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for criterion-based retention of data object versions are disclosed. In the method and apparatus, a plurality of keys are sorted in accordance with an ordering scheme, whereby a key of the plurality of keys has an associated version of a data object and a timestamp. The key is inspected in accordance with the ordering scheme to determine based at least in part on the timestamp whether a criterion for performing an action on the associated version of the data object is satisfied. If the criterion is satisfied, a marker key is added to the plurality of keys, whereby the marker key precedes the inspected key according to the ordering scheme and indicates that the criterion is satisfied.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing keys pertaining to data objects are disclosed. In the method and apparatus, a plurality of keys that are associated with a plurality of data objects are retained, whereby the plurality of keys are capable of being listed in accordance with an ordering scheme. The ordering scheme is used to inspect the plurality of keys to determine whether a data object associated with a key of the plurality of keys satisfies a criterion. One or more actions are taken on the key or associated data object based at least in part on determining that the criterion is satisfied, whereby an order of taking the one or more actions is a reverse of an order by which the key is listed in accordance with the ordering scheme.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for criterion-based retention of data object versions are disclosed. In the method and apparatus, a plurality of keys are sorted in accordance with an ordering scheme, whereby a key of the plurality of keys has an associated version of a data object and a timestamp. The key is inspected in accordance with the ordering scheme to determine based at least in part on the timestamp whether a criterion for performing an action on the associated version of the data object is satisfied. If the criterion is satisfied, a marker key is added to the plurality of keys, whereby the marker key precedes the inspected key according to the ordering scheme and indicates that the criterion is satisfied.