A tape backup drive is a standalone data storage device designed to read from and write data to magnetic tape cartridges—typically LTO (Linear Tape-Open) formats. These drives are a reliable, offline solution for businesses looking to back up critical data, archive it securely, and protect it from threats like ransomware or accidental deletion.
Unlike cloud or disk storage, tape drives provide a physical air gap, making them ideal for long-term retention and compliance with data protection regulations.
Tape drives connect directly to a server or backup system, often via SAS or Fibre Channel interfaces. Data is streamed to the drive, compressed (if enabled), and written to the tape in a linear format. When it’s time to retrieve that data, the drive reads the tape, quickly locating files using onboard indexing and error correction features.
Modern LTO drives are incredibly fast and dependable. For example, an LTO-9 drive can write up to 400MB/s (compressed) and store up to 45TB per cartridge. Most drives are compatible with backup software, making integration with existing IT environments simple and efficient.
Tape drives are a cost-effective choice for small to mid-sized organisations that want the benefits of tape storage without investing in a full library system. They're also ideal for businesses looking to implement a 3-2-1 backup strategy or add a secure, offline layer to their disaster recovery plan.
With models available from leading vendors like Qualstar, tape drives continue to offer unmatched durability, longevity, and peace of mind.
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