Backup Tape Rotation Services

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.