Backup Tape Rotation Services
Streamlining Efficiency with Strategic Backup Tape Rotation Services
Backup tape rotation is a critical step in creating an effective data backup strategy. It is a system that works with digital data stored on magnetic tape. Magnetic tape has a high volume capacity and is very affordable, making it a great option for backing up individual workstations or small networks.
Rotation minimizes the amount of media needed by reusing tape once tape retention periods expire. Our rotation services make sure that your records are backed up regularly and rotated as frequently as needed. Rotation ensures that your tapes contain up-to-date data and protects against theft and natural disasters.
Our backup tape vaulting facilities are secured with 24/7 monitoring and climate control. We make sure that your tape is handled properly and kept safe. We have a network of trusted tape rotation and vaulting providers across the country. Record Nations will connect you with local providers and storage facilities in just minutes.
The Benefits of Backup Tape Rotation
Secure tape rotation is a useful tool for effective records management. It provides many benefits for modern businesses. Learn more about backup tape rotation services by contacting us today. Our knowledgeable representatives are happy to discuss our service options and help you select storage services that would most benefit your organization.
Security
Magnetic tape is a physical storage medium that cannot be hacked or deleted, protecting your data from common digital hazards. Our providers practice safe handling by transporting tape in locked bins with secure vehicles and documenting the chain of custody with barcode scanning. Our facilities are highly secure and include emergency retrieval services to provide quick access.
Longevity
Magnetic tape can last more than 10 years and be reused numerous times when handled properly. It is an excellent choice for data with extended retention requirements.
Cost-Efficiency
Reusing your magnetic tape with rotation services lowers costs for bulk data storage.
Service Options for Your Records and Storage
The Backup Tape Rotation Process
1. Inventory the type and volume of services that you require. If you are unsure, we can help you estimate!
2. Call Record Nations at (866) 385-3706 or fill out the form to get free, customized quotes on local services for backup tape rotation and vaulting.
3. Choose the service provider that best meets your needs and budget. They will pick up your tapes and transport them to a secure off-site facility.
4. Your service provider will securely maintain, monitor, and adjust your tapes regularly to ensure they are correctly backed up.
Why Choose Shred Nations?
Fast Turnaround
Get matched to a partner in 3-5 minutes. They will work with you to get a quote based on your specifications.
Nationwide Coverage
We have partners all over the United States and Canada.
20+ Years
Shred Nations has over two decades of experience matching customers to the right services.
Partnered with the Best
We are partnered with thousands of partners nationwide providing you with the best, secure options in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is tape rotation?
Tape rotation is a data backup strategy used by businesses to manage the lifecycle of backup tapes and ensure that multiple copies of data are stored at different points in time. The primary goal of tape rotation is to provide redundancy and protection against data loss by creating and maintaining multiple backup copies stored on different tapes.
What are the types of backup tapes?
Backup tapes come in various formats and technologies, each with its own characteristics, advantages, and limitations. Here are some of the most common types of backup tapes:
- Linear Tape-Open (LTO): LTO is one of the most widely used tape formats for data backup and archiving. It offers high-capacity storage and fast data transfer rates, making it suitable for large-scale backup and recovery operations. LTO tapes come in different generations (e.g., LTO-7, LTO-8), with each generation offering increased storage capacity and performance.
- Digital Linear Tape (DLT): DLT is another popular tape format known for its reliability and durability. DLT tapes offer high-capacity storage and fast data transfer rates, making them suitable for backup and archiving applications in enterprise environments. DLT tapes are available in various capacities and generations (e.g., DLT-S4, DLT-S5).
- Advanced Intelligent Tape (AIT): AIT is a proprietary tape format developed by Sony for data backup and storage. AIT tapes offer high-capacity storage, high-speed data transfer, and robust error correction capabilities. AIT tapes are available in different capacities and generations (e.g., AIT-4, AIT-5).
- Digital Audio Tape (DAT): DAT is a tape format originally designed for audio recording but later adapted for data storage applications. DAT tapes offer relatively low capacities compared to other tape formats but are still used for small-scale backup and archival purposes in some environments.
- Linear Tape File System (LTFS): LTFS is not a specific tape format but rather a file system format that enables tape storage to be used in a similar way to disk storage. LTFS allows users to access and manage files on tape using standard file operations, making it easier to use tape storage for backup, archiving, and data interchange.
How does a backup tape rotation service work?
1. Inventory the type and volume of services that you require. If you are unsure, we can help you estimate!
2. Call Record Nations at (866) 385-3706 or fill out the form to get free, customized quotes on local services for backup tape rotation and vaulting.
3. Choose the service provider that best meets your needs and budget. They will pick up your tapes and transport them to a secure off-site facility.
4. Your service provider will securely maintain, monitor, and adjust your tapes regularly to ensure they are correctly backed up.
How does the tape rotation schedule work?
There are multiple options when it comes to the frequency of rotation schedules:
1. FIFO (first-in, first-out): This takes the current copy of the data and saves it over the oldest data tape.
2. Grandfather-Father-Son: The son tapes are backed up every day, the father tapes are backed up every week, and the grandfather tapes are backed up monthly.
3. Hanoi: The first set of tapes backs up every other day, the second setbacks up every fourth day, and the third setbacks up every eighth day.
How secure are the tape rotation facilities?
Our service provider’s storage facilities come equipped with 24/7 monitoring and security, climate controls, fire suppression, and restricted access to protect your tapes from environmental and security risks. Additionally, our service providers follow all state and federal data privacy regulations.
How much do tape rotation services cost?
The price of your tape rotation service depends on how many tapes you have, the cycle of rotation you require, and any other special requests. Your service provider will be able to give you a more accurate quote when you contact us.
How can my tapes be retrieved in case of an emergency or a data recovery scenario?
For the most part, our service providers can provide 24/7 access and retrieval for your tapes. Most tapes can be returned within the same business day or the next business day, but most providers will offer emergency retrieval services as well.
What is the process for adding or removing tapes from the rotation?
Your rotation plan will be periodically reviewed and adjusted based on changes in your data landscape, regulatory requirements, or other factors. Review your tapes’ retention policies to determine when the tapes can be safely removed from the rotation.