What is tape backup? | Definition from TechTarget (2024)

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What is tape backup? | Definition from TechTarget? ›

Tape backup is the practice of periodically copying data from a primary storage device to a tape cartridge. The data can be recovered from the tape cartridge if there is a hard disk crash or failure. Tape backups can be done manually or be programmed to happen automatically with appropriate software.

Tape backup, in simple terms, is the backup of data onto digital tape for short- or long-term storage purposes. Many types of media, libraries, and even servers can be backed up to magnetic tape storage.

If not stored properly, it's subject to oxidation, and uneven stresses could stretch or distort it. Its magnetic properties are susceptible to decline too. Even when stored under optimal conditions, however, any medium has a finite life cycle.

Tape storage is not used only for backup in case of system failure, but also for archiving data for long-term storage. Although the components of a tape storage system vary depending on numerous factors, it generally consists of magnetic tape media (e.g. LTO), tape drives and tape automation.

On the flip side, there is a limited amount of space on a tape drive. Once the drive is full, you need to buy additional tapes. Furthermore, locating information on the tape drive can take some time. It doesn't work as fast as a solid state drive, and while it is not slow by any means, it isn't instantaneous.

Most manufacturers estimate that LTO tapes will provide dependable data storage for 15-30 years. However, LTO archives require precise storage conditions. Slight deviations in temperature or humidity can affect storage life.

As was mentioned, tapes have a life expectancy of up to 30 years. They are an ideal solution for storing data that must be kept for long periods. Likewise, tape backup is very cost-effective if you need to archive large amounts of data.

That means storing magnetic tapes in environments with stable humidity and temperatures. A more realistic lifespan for magnetic tape is about ten to twenty years. And it's important to note that tape is more susceptible to wear and tear if used frequently.

Recovering data rapidly from tape storage may be more challenging because it typically has slower access times than disk-based storage. This can be particularly difficult when accessing data immediately during a disaster or outage. Tape storage is susceptible to physical harm when exposed to heat, moisture, or dust.

Does Google use tape backups? ›

Google Turns to Tape to Rescue Lost Gmail Google Turns to Tape to Rescue Lost Gmail. When a bug wiped out multiple storied copies of Gmail boxes during a software update, Google turned to its backup tapes to restore the data.

Performance-wise, tape infrastructure can result in slower data retrieval times, making tape suitable for archival storage where fast access is less critical. Disk storage, with its fast random access speed, is ideal for applications requiring quick data retrieval.

As a precaution, always keep tape cartridges away from stray magnetic fields because even small magnetic sources can compromise data stored on the tape. If you're storing backup tapes offsite for disaster recovery purposes, make sure you thoroughly test your tape storage locations for magnetic fields.

Good storage conditions: Store the tapes in a place that is not exposed to heat, humidity, dust, etc. Good storage conditions maximize the lifespan of the tapes and protect the backups from being corrupted and lost. Label and inventory: Add a label and barcode to each tape you add to offsite storage.

Tape works for both large- and small-scale backups. Tape can store the backups of a personal computer's hard drive, but also can be used in large enterprises to back up large amounts of data storage for archiving and disaster recovery (DR) purposes. Tape backups can also restore data to storage devices when needed.

Performance-wise, tape infrastructure can result in slower data retrieval times, making tape suitable for archival storage where fast access is less critical. Disk storage, with its fast random access speed, is ideal for applications requiring quick data retrieval.

The tape backing turns an adhesive into adhesive tape. In other words: it is the backing that holds the adhesive in place. But it also has critical functional importance. Tags. Industrial applications.

A tape drive provides sequential access storage, unlike a hard disk drive, which provides direct access storage. A disk drive can move to any position on the disk in a few milliseconds, but a tape drive must physically wind tape between reels to read any one particular piece of data.