> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.eazybackup.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.eazybackup.com/e3-object-storage/advanced/versioning-and-object-lock.md).

# Versioning and Object Lock

Bucket versioning, Object Lock, default retention, and implications for deletion and backups.

Buckets can be created with **Versioning** and **Object Lock** on the **Create Bucket** modal (or configured via S3 API). Both affect how deletes work and how backup products use the bucket.

## Versioning

When **Enable Versioning** is on:

* Each overwrite creates a new **version** of the object.
* Deletes may create **delete markers** instead of removing all versions.
* The [Bucket Browser](/e3-object-storage/using-the-dashboard/bucket-browser.md) **Show object versions** view lists versions and delete markers.

Versioning is required for some lifecycle actions on **noncurrent** versions. See Lifecycle rules.

## Object Lock

When **Enable Object Locking** is on at bucket creation:

* Objects (or versions) can have **retention** and **legal hold**.
* Protected data cannot be deleted until retention expires and holds are cleared.
* Buckets with active locks **cannot be deleted** until protections are resolved.

### Default retention policy (at create)

Optional toggle: **Set a default retention policy**

* Applies a default retention mode/duration to new objects when enabled.
* **Leave off** when a backup product (e.g. Veeam) manages its own Object Lock per object.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Combining a bucket-level default retention with application-managed locks can cause unintended retention or cleanup failures. Follow your backup vendor’s Object Lock guidance.
{% endhint %}

## Deletion impact

| Scenario       | Behavior                                                                        |
| -------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Versioning off | Delete removes the object.                                                      |
| Versioning on  | Delete may add a delete marker; older versions remain until expired or deleted. |
| Object Lock    | Versions under retention or legal hold cannot be deleted until eligible.        |
| Cancel service | Buckets with blocking Object Lock may prevent full account cleanup.             |

See [Cancel or delete the service](/e3-object-storage/billing-and-usage/cancel-or-delete-the-service.md) and [Buckets](/e3-object-storage/using-the-dashboard/buckets.md) delete modal.

## Browser behavior

With Object Lock enabled, the Bucket Browser may treat some versions as **read-only** and block delete actions on protected versions.

## Backup product notes

* **Veeam** — enable Object Lock on the bucket; do **not** enable default retention at bucket create. See Veeam guide.
* **General** — confirm whether your app expects versioning, lock mode (Governance vs Compliance), and retention before enabling defaults.