Rising from the Ashes: The Art of Cyber Attack Recovery

In today’s digital landscape, the threat of cyber attacks looms large, with organizations of all sizes and industries facing an ever-evolving array of threats, from ransomware and phishing attacks to data breaches and DDoS attacks. Despite best efforts to prevent such attacks, no system is immune to exploitation, and even the most robust security measures can be breached. In the aftermath of a cyber attack, the road to recovery can be long and arduous, but with the right strategies and tools in place, it is possible to rise from the ashes and emerge stronger than ever. In this blog post, Total Data Migration will explore the art of cyber attack recovery and how organizations can navigate the challenges of rebuilding after an attack.

1. Rapid Response

The first step in cyber attack recovery is to mount a rapid and coordinated response to contain the attack and mitigate further damage. Working with Total Data Migration this may involve isolating infected systems, shutting down compromised networks, and deploying countermeasures to halt the progress of the attack. Time is of the essence in the immediate aftermath of an attack, and swift action can help minimize the impact and prevent the attack from spreading further.

2. Assessing the Damage

Once the immediate threat has been contained, the next step is to work with Total Data Migration to assess the extent of the damage caused by the attack. This may involve conducting a thorough investigation to identify the scope of the breach, determine what data or systems have been compromised, and assess the impact on operations, finances, and reputation. Understanding the full extent of the damage is essential for developing an effective recovery plan.

3. Restoring Systems and Data

With a clear understanding of the damage caused by the attack, the focus shifts to restoring systems and data to a safe and functional state. This may involve restoring data from backups, rebuilding compromised systems, and implementing additional security measures to prevent future attacks. Total Data Migration as the data recovery specialists can play a crucial role in this process, helping organizations recover lost or corrupted data and minimize downtime.

4. Strengthening Security Measures

In the aftermath of a cyber attack, it’s essential to strengthen security measures to prevent future attacks and protect against similar threats. This may involve implementing additional security controls, such as multi-factor authentication, intrusion detection systems, and security awareness training for employees. Regular security audits and assessments can help identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in existing security measures and guide the development of a robust security strategy.

5. Communication and Transparency

Effective communication is key to rebuilding trust and confidence in the wake of a cyber attack. Organizations should be transparent about the nature and impact of the attack, keeping stakeholders informed of the steps being taken to address the issue and prevent future incidents. Open and honest communication can help mitigate reputational damage and reassure customers, partners, and employees that their data is safe in the organization’s hands.

6. Learning from the Experience

Finally, it’s essential to learn from the experience of a cyber attack and use it as an opportunity to improve and strengthen cybersecurity practices. Total Data Migration can help conduct a post-mortem analysis to identify lessons learned, root causes of the attack, and areas for improvement. Use this information to update policies and procedures, enhance security controls, and develop a more resilient cybersecurity posture moving forward.

Conclusion

Recovering from a cyber attack is a challenging and complex process that requires careful planning, swift action, and a coordinated effort across the organization. By working with Total Data Migration towards mounting a rapid response, assessing the damage, restoring systems and data, strengthening security measures, communicating effectively, and learning from the experience, organizations can navigate the challenges of cyber attack recovery and emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. With a proactive approach to cybersecurity and a commitment to continuous improvement, organizations can reduce the risk of future attacks and protect their critical assets from harm.

Hard Drive Data Recovery for Businesses: Choosing a Provider

Hard drive data recovery is highly specialized work. While modern IT departments are extremely capable, most do not have the necessary equipment or training to repair damaged actuator heads or perform a platter swap. 

 

Appropriate backup and archival practices can help your business minimize the need for hard disk drive (HDD) data recovery — but even the best disaster recovery strategies can fail under the wrong circumstances. 

If you’re selecting a data recovery provider for your business, here are essential factors to keep in mind. To learn about Total Data Migration’s data recovery services, send us a message or call (800) 460-7599.

Hard drive data recovery requires cleanroom technology.

Hard drives may fail for dozens of reasons, but in most cases, engineers will need to replace damaged components with functional parts from a working (or donor) drive. All physical repairs must be performed in a cleanroom. 

Otherwise, the hard drive’s internal components may be exposed to contaminants. Modern HDDs have read/write heads that float less than 5 nanometers above the surface of the platters. The platters store data on a thin layer of magnetic material. If the heads come into contact with that material, permanent data loss can occur.

A cleanroom or cleanflow bench prevents contaminants from compromising the data recovery process. As a rule of thumb, a data recovery firm is not capable of providing services if they do not maintain cleanrooms. 

As you research data recovery providers for your business, it’s a good idea to ask about other technologies:

  • Determine whether the provider has firmware repair tools. Firmware repair is frequently necessary for physical data recovery work, since modern hard drives have exceptionally specific firmware parameters. 
  • Ask whether the data recovery provider has an onsite hardware library. Total Data Migration maintains extensive libraries of legacy hard drives, tape drives, and other storage media, which ensures fast turnaround times and high recovery rates. 
  • Ask about cleanroom certification. Total Data Migration’s locations are equipped with ISO 5 cleanroom technology, which ensures that we’re able to perform all necessary component repairs on-site.

Related: Hard Drive and Server Recovery

HDD data recovery providers must have comprehensive experience with various file systems and file formats.

Data recovery providers must work directly with data to repair corruption and verify the results of each recovery. This is especially important for business data recovery: If you need to recover PSTs, databases, or other high-value files, your data recovery provider will need extensive experience with those files. 

Total Data Migration has experience with thousands of file types, along with every widely used file system and operating system. Through decades of research and development, we’ve built an extensive array of tools for responding to every type of disaster scenario — from deleted files and hard drive failures to mishandled RAID rebuilds.

Related: Tape Vs. Cloud: Creating a Business Continuity Plan

Data recovery providers must have excellent data security controls.

Whether you operate a small business or manage systems for a major enterprise, security is an essential consideration. 

Total Data Migration can provide chain of custody (COC) reports throughout the data recovery process to aid in compliance. All data is held on secure, closed systems. When data recovery is complete, all unwanted media is disposed of in accordance with NNIST’s Special Publication 800-88 standards. 

To learn more, read: Data Tape Destruction: Maintaining Compliance at Scale.

Trust Total Data Migration for compliance-ready data recovery.

Total Data Migration provides a comprehensive set of data solutions for businesses of all sizes. Our services include data recovery for hard drives, data tape cartridges, and RAID systems, along with expert options for data migration and ransomware recovery. 

If you’re looking for an HDD data recovery provider, we’re ready to help. Reach out to a data recovery expert today. 

Do I Really Need to Migrate from DLT (Digital Linear Tape)? 

The Digital Linear Tape (DLT) format is effectively obsolete, as Quantum ceased development of DLT drives back in 2007. Modern formats like LTO (Linear Tape Open) provide faster transfer speeds, higher capacities, and more robust support for long-term data storage.

However, DLT tapes are far from extinct. The format is still used by organizations that made a hardware commitment back in the early 2000s — and for many of those businesses, DLT addresses all of their needs. 

After all, if you’re storing legal documents, emails, or simple images, DLT-V4 has a 160 gigabyte (GB) capacity and a 10 MB/s data rate. That’s fast enough, and it’s more than enough storage; why spend thousands of dollars upgrading to a new format? Relying on legacy hardware may seem like a savvy business decision, particularly if you’re not interested in upgrading your archive/backup software.  

Unfortunately, businesses that utilize older media formats take serious risks. If you’re still using DLT or another obsolete data cartridge, here’s why data migration should be a priority. 

DLT may address your business’s immediate needs, but archives require robust hardware support.

There’s a simple reason to migrate data to the cloud, LTO cartridges, or another modern storage system: DLT drives are becoming much harder to find. 

At the time of writing, DLT-S4 tape drives were available for about $200 on second-hand auction websites. However, the sellers provide no warranty on the hardware — which is reasonable, since no manufacturer is actively producing components for the tape drives. 

Likewise, brand-new DLT media is becoming more expensive as existing stock runs out. That forces many businesses to reuse tapes, which may lead to the deterioration of magnetic data storage materials. 

Of course, every data tape format has a limited lifespan; LTO tapes should be replaced after approximately 250 uses, for example. But tape lifespans are largely dependent on the conditions of use, and reusing older tapes repeatedly may raise the chances of data loss. 

The purpose of data storage tapes is to retain key information for long periods of time. If your archive solution relies on hard-to-find hardware in 2024, those issues will be much more severe in 2034 — and when you need to restore key files, you may not be able to do so. 

Related: Retiring EOL Tape Media: Planning Your Strategy

Relying on obsolete storage media can introduce security concerns.

If you’re using DLT, you’re using backup software that supports DLT. In fact, there’s a good chance that you’ve used the same backup solution since acquiring your hardware. 

Backup software can be a vector of attack, particularly for the sophisticated threat actors that target law firms, hospitals, and other organizations that are likely to use outdated IT practices. If ransomware infects key systems, it may lay dormant for many months, quickly compromising short-term backups.

Your IT strategy should include updating mission-critical software as needed with relevant security patches. Backup software certainly falls into this category, but if you’re using obsolete media, you may be tied to an obsolete backup solution.

Related: Should You Migrate to LTO-8 or LTO-9?

Work with the experts in DLT tape migration.

Although tape migration offers significant benefits, it’s an expensive process — which is why many organizations rely on legacy media for years or decades after obsolescence. Working with a seasoned tape migration partner can mitigate the costs associated with in-house conversion efforts.

At Total Data Migration, we excel in data conversion, restoration, and catalog ingestion. Our expert team stands ready to assist your enterprise in preparing for an upgrade to modern tape formats while retaining the features of your current system.

We ensure the reliability of each tape and dataset while prioritizing security. To learn more, schedule a free consultation here or call (800) 460-7599 to discuss your project with us.

 

Tape Vs. Cloud: Creating a Business Continuity Plan

Is your business continuity strategy robust enough for your enterprise? 

Unfortunately, there’s a good chance that it isn’t. In one survey performed by CloudEndure (PDF), 71% of respondents experienced a downtime event in the previous year. Only 7% of respondents performed monthly disaster recovery drills — and 15% admitted that they never conduct disaster recovery drills. 

To avoid becoming a statistic, you’ll need a strategy that addresses your business’s unique needs. The first step: Choosing an appropriate backup medium (and if necessary, migrating your current archives to that medium). 

Below, we’ll discuss key considerations for choosing between the cloud and modern data tape formats such as LTO-9. To discuss specific solutions for your enterprise, send us a message or call (800) 460-7599.

LTO (Linear Tape Ultrium) vs. Cloud Storage

Here’s how LTO-9 stacks up against cloud data storage in several areas. These points are comparable for LTO-8 and IBM’s most recent formats (TS1155 and TS1160); we’re focusing on LTO-9 because it’s a current-generation format with wide support.

Capacity

  • LTO-9 Data Tapes: Offers high storage capacity of up to 18TB native and 45TB compressed, suitable for large-scale data backup and archival needs.
  • Cloud Storage: Offers virtually unlimited storage capacity, scalable to match the needs of businesses of any size, enabling seamless expansion without physical limitations.

Speed

  • LTO-9 Data Tapes: Data transfer speeds are fast, particularly for sequential read/write operations, making them suitable for initial backups and large-scale data transfers. Generally, LTO provides a greater degree of availability than cloud storage.
  • Cloud Storage: Data transfer speeds can vary based on internet connection and service provider, but typically offer fast upload and download speeds, enabling quick access to data from anywhere with internet connectivity.

Durability and Reliability

  • LTO-9 Data Tapes: Like all physical storage media, tapes are susceptible to damage and degradation over time. They require appropriate storage conditions, and disaster recovery strategies should implement redundancy to protect against media issues.
  • Cloud Storage: Data is stored redundantly across multiple servers and data centers, providing built-in protection against hardware failures, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events, ensuring high levels of data durability and reliability.

Security

  • LTO-9 Data Tapes: Physical security measures are required to prevent unauthorized access or theft of tapes, and encryption techniques can be applied to enhance data security during storage and transit. Physical tape also allows for air-gapping, which can provide resilience against ransomware.
  • Cloud Storage: Cloud providers implement advanced security measures, including encryption, access controls, and compliance certifications, to protect data from unauthorized access, ensuring data confidentiality and integrity. However, the security is largely dependent on the provider.

Cost

  • LTO-9 Data Tapes: Initial setup costs include the purchase of tape drives and tapes, along with ongoing expenses for storage, maintenance, and replacement of aging hardware, which can become significant over time.
  • Cloud Storage: Typically operates on a pay-as-you-go model, with no upfront hardware costs and predictable monthly or usage-based pricing, offering scalability and cost-effectiveness. Cloud storage provides lower operating expenses in general, though operating costs are highly dependent on the nature of the data, the frequency of data access, and other factors. 

Related: Should You Migrate to LTO-8 or LTO-9?

Legacy Tape Formats vs. Cloud Storage

There are extensive reasons to use LTO-8/LT0-9 for archives, but legacy formats have fewer benefits — and if your enterprise relies on older tapes, it’s probably time to migrate to the cloud or to a current-generation format. 

Older tape formats include:

  • Older generations of LTO (LTO-1 through LTO-6).
  • Older IBM formats (3590 and 3570).
  • Advanced Intelligent Tape (AIT).
  • Digital Linear Tape (DLT).
  • Digital Data Storage (DDS).
  • Mammoth 8mm.

Many of these formats are still in wide use, simply because upgrading can seem prohibitively expensive. Unfortunately, relying on older tapes isn’t practical, and the cost of obsolescence can multiply over time: Sourcing functional hardware may be difficult, and compliance issues can become a significant concern. 

If you’re utilizing older tape formats, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Tape migration, when handled appropriately, can greatly reduce IT costs and drastically improve your business continuity plan.

Related: A Brief History of Tape Data Storage 

Building Business Continuity with Total Data Migration

Whether your business utilizes the cloud, data tape cartridges, or a hybrid strategy, a qualified tape partner can help you reduce costs and build resiliency. 

At Total Data Migration, we’re experts in data conversion, restoration, and catalog ingestion. Our team can help you migrate to modern formats like LTO-9 or LTO-8 or bring data into the cloud — without compromising security or creating a burden for IT staff. 

Click here for a free consultation or call (800) 460-7599 to discuss your project.

 

How Often Should LTO Tapes Be Replaced?

Every enterprise should engage in end-of-life planning for data storage media. That extends to tape cartridges; while tape is often considered more reliable than other forms of data storage, all formats can become less reliable with regular use.

LTO (Linear Tape Open) Ultrium is a high-capacity format designed for longevity — but like every other data storage medium, it has a limited operating lifespan. 

How many times can I use an LTO tape before it becomes less reliable?

Maxell, one of the major manufacturers of LTOs, recommends replacing LTO tapes after “approximately 250 [uses].” For general applications, this is an excellent rule of thumb. 

But the true durability of LTO Ultrium may be much higher. In a white paper detailing LTO Ultrium testing processes (PDF), Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) notes that typical logo compliance tests include locate/rewind/append testing, during which a “locate-rewind” cycle is repeated 250 times. HPE testing passes tape through the drive 2,500 times — applying 1000% more stress than typical logo tests. 

“The benefit to the user is that the data cartridge performs under the most extreme daily conditions,” the white paper notes, “reducing the number of failed backups and restores and minimizing the risk of disruption to the network.”

For general purposes, LTO tapes should be cycled out after 250 uses.

While HPE’s testing indicates that some LTO tapes are capable of handling extreme stress, the goal of backup/archive is to minimize factors that could compromise reliability. Even if you’re dealing with fully redundant data, a damaged cartridge can lead to lost time — and if you’re not dealing with full redundancy, damaged media may be catastrophic. 

To reiterate: Your backup/archive strategy should establish the end-of-lifespan (EOL) for LTO cartridges at around 250 uses. Few organizations will reach that milestone. 

For long-term storage, the lifespan of the actual tape becomes more important than the lifespan of mechanical components. Most manufacturers estimate that LTO tapes will provide dependable data storage for 15-30 years in appropriate storage conditions.

To learn more, read our Storage Lifespan FAQs.

A Trusted Resource for LTO Tape Migration and Data Recovery 

At Total Data Migration, we offer a comprehensive range of services for the secure restoration, migration, and recovery of data from virtually any cartridge format. Our state-of-the-art facility houses a vast library of modern and legacy devices, and we strictly maintain the chain of custody to ensure the utmost security and integrity of your tapes.

Our team of highly skilled experts are ready to provide essential guidance and support, whether you’re recovering from a disaster or proactively planning to prevent long-term data loss. Get in touch with us by calling (800) 460-7599 or sending an email to initiate the process.

 

Retiring EOL Tape Media: Planning Your Strategy

When crafting your tape backup/archive strategy, you’ll specify retention times — and ideally, you’ll also establish a strategy for the end-of-life (EOL) phase.  

No storage device lasts forever, and tapes are not an exception. Over time, you’ll need to upgrade to modern formats (such as LTO-9), and depending on usage patterns and storage conditions, you may make the decision to retire media much earlier than its rated operating lifespan. 

A qualified tape partner can help you retain essential data, migrate formats, sanitize media, and limit your systems’ footprint. Contact us to discuss your strategy or read on to learn key considerations that impact the EOL phase. 

1. Start with a case-appropriate retention strategy.

Organizations should align their practices with industry standards and comply with legal and regulatory requirements for data retention. 

But “industry standards” isn’t always a perfect rule of thumb — you can’t always look at competitors’ practices to define retention periods, and regulatory requirements sometimes leave room for interpretation. 

Ideally, your retention period will be long enough to cover any potential circumstances that would necessitate a backup/archive. That includes electronic discovery requests. However, an excessive retention period will lead to greater costs. 

Ask questions:

  • How does my backup software manage retention? 
  • Do I have a strategy for checking older archives to ensure that the retention policy is being followed? 
  • For longer retention periods, do I have a migration strategy for handling archived data on legacy media formats? 

2. Understand how backup methods affect retention requirements.

Certain backup methods can minimize media requirements, but there’s always a cost. For example, incremental backup strategies establish a full copy of the target data, then perform incremental backups from that point in time, reducing the overall storage space required for the backup. 

But these strategies have different retention requirements than full-disk backups. Generally, it’s advisable to set retention periods for twice as long for incremental backups; you’ll also need to check the archived data occasionally to ensure that it will still be accessible when needed.

3. Don’t assign massive media sanitization work to a limited IT staff.

When the time comes to retire your tapes, you’ll need to sanitize the media appropriately. Typically, this means using NIST’s Special Publication 800-88 (PDF).

At scale, compliant tape destruction can be time consuming, particularly when your IT staff are already overwhelmed with other EOL projects (such as migration). Handling the work in-house can create issues:

  • Some sanitization techniques require technical knowledge. Degaussing, for example, is secure — but only when media is appropriately oriented on a powerful degausser. 
  • Media sanitization procedures must be verified, which requires access to legacy hardware and backup software. 
  • In many cases, accurate documentation must be kept to show how and when the media (and data) was sanitized. 

Total Data Migration provides comprehensive solutions for EOL tape projects. From migration and catalog ingestion to secure sanitization, we help organizations create secure, compliant strategies — while limiting strain on IT departments for an optimal return on investment. 

 Call us today at (800) 460-7599 or contact us online to get started.

Data Recovery for LTFS Media

LTFS (Linear Tape File System) is one of the most advantageous features of the LTO data tape format. With proper implementation, LTFS allows data to be accessed conveniently, similar to the accessibility of data on a disk or removable flash drive. 

However, LTFS does not change the sequential nature of tape write processes. In other words, if you write a file to an LTFS tape set, the data will be written to the end of the tape — and if you delete files, the change does not occur immediately. The deleted files will continue to take up space on the media until you format the tape(s). 

If you need to recover data from an LTFS tape set, there are several key factors to keep in mind:

  • If tapes are physically damaged, the LTFS file system will not meaningfully impact the chances of a successful recovery. 
  • However, engineers should have experience with LTFS, as this can be beneficial when reconstructing and validating the recovered data.
  • If files have been deleted from an LTFS volume, deletion will only occur when the tape media is completely reformatted. 

Below, we’ll explain a bit more about LTFS and how it impacts data recovery. To speak with an LTFS data recovery engineer, call (800) 460-7599 or fill out our online form for a free consultation.

Before Using Automatic Repair for LTFS, Exercise Caution

LTFS file system issues can occur due to power loss, drive disconnection, or for other reasons, resulting in a failure to recognize the volume. 

LTFS tapes contain two partitions:

  • Partition 0 contains an index file, which categorizes the files that have been saved to the tape. 
  • Partition 1 includes files (data), along with additional indexes.

If an LTO drive is not properly disconnected, the indexes of the two partitions may not match. This can be resolved in some cases by turning off write protection and engaging automatic repair utilities. 

However, we strongly recommend working with a tape services provider when addressing any issues, particularly on volumes that contain non-redundant copies of important data. Repairing the indexes can cause permanent data loss if the failure (or disconnection) occurs in the middle of a write operation — but in some cases, data recovery engineers may be able to restore the affected files. 

Trust the Leader in Data Tape Recovery

Total Data Migration (TDM) is a recognized industry leader in data recovery, restoration, migration, disposal, and tape backup technologies. With more than 50 years of combined experience, our leadership understands the challenges of enterprise storage, data retention requirements, and compliance considerations.

We provide recovery, migration, and secure sanitization services for all LTO formats, ensuring that enterprises can restore key systems when necessary — and retire legacy systems where appropriate. 

Get started with a free consultation. Fill out our online form or call (800) 460-7599 to speak with an expert.

Digital Linear Tape (DLT) Data Recovery: 3 Factors to Consider

Until the early 2000s, the Digital Linear Tape (DLT) format was one of the most common enterprise data storage technologies. DLT and SDLT (Super DLT) were inexpensive and reliable, with relatively dense capacities: DLT-V4 drives supported capacities of up to 160 gigabytes. 

Of course, technologies have advanced. In 2007, Quantum Corporation discontinued DLT, focusing instead on Linear Tape Open (LTO). The recently released LTO-9 format supports capacities of up to 18 terabytes (TB) native (45TB compressed). 

But while DLT is a legacy storage medium, many businesses still have stacks of DLT tapes. Those archives may need to be retained for various reasons — and if data needs to be restored, organizations may face serious challenges. 

Total Data Migration provides data recovery, conversion, and media sanitization services for 3,000 native tape systems, backup formats, and voice loggers. If you’re considering data recovery for DLT tapes, here are some key considerations to help you keep your project moving forward.

1. DLT Lifespans and Media Damage

Like all magnetic formats, DLT tapes have a limited operational lifespan. DLTs are expected to last for upwards of 30 years, but storage conditions play a crucial role. 

And while DLT has a fairly simple mechanical design, mechanical components may break down before magnetization becomes an issue. Common DLT tape problems include:

  • Broken clutch mechanisms, which can cause the tape to destroy the leader that allows loading.
  • Damage to tape media caused by the reel motors of a defective DLT drive. The DLT format does not have a capstan (a component within the cartridge that moves the tape during read/write processes). 
  • Damage to the optical servo, which can influence alignment with the read/write heads.
  • Damage caused by extreme humidity or flooding. 
  • Damage to various components caused by dropping or otherwise mishandling the tape cartridges. 

For DLT data recovery projects, each cartridge will need to be individually evaluated by an engineer who has experience with the format. Damage to the cartridge must be repaired in a controlled environment, preferably with certified cleanrooms. 

2. Sourcing DLT Hardware

Arguably, the biggest challenge for DLT data recovery is sourcing working hardware. As we’ve discussed, DLT is legacy — and even if you’re able to source one or more DLT drives, those drives must be evaluated to ensure that they’re in perfect operating condition. 

Otherwise, the DLT drive could damage the cartridge leader, or in severe cases, cause permanent data loss via the read/write heads impacting the tape. Put simply, if you’re not regularly working with DLT, you should not trust unserviced hardware to read the tapes — even if the DLT drive worked well the last time it was used.

3. Secure Options for DLT Data Recovery

As with any storage medium designed for archival use, DLTs frequently store confidential data or personally identifiable information (PII). Maintaining compliance is crucial. This is particularly true if DLT data recovery is required as part of a discovery process. 

At Total Data Migration, we’ve built our reputation through our security-first approach. With closed recovery networks and chain of custody (COC) reports available on request, we offer reliable solutions for data management and recovery. 

Features of our DLT recovery services include:

  • Support for all DLT media, including earlier formats like CompacTape I/II , SDLT, and the last-gen DLT VS.
  • An expansive onsite hardware library with regularly serviced DLT drives.
  • Support for all backup software and conversion options for legacy backups.
  • Secure onsite media sanitization services.
  • A full Statement of Work (SoW) with estimated turnaround time.
  • Our comprehensive satisfaction guarantee.
  • More than 50 years of combined experience with data recovery, restoration, migration, and media disposal.

Whether you need to recover data from a single damaged DLT-4 or an entire set of older CompacTapes, we’re ready to help. Get started with a free consultation or call (800) 460-7599.

 

Cold Data Storage Market Continues to Grow

An estimated 60% of all data is in “cold storage,” meaning that it’s infrequently accessed (if it’s ever accessed).  And thanks to a number of factors, that percentage is expected to grow over the next decade. 

A report from International Data Corp. (IDC) and Seagate Technology estimates that the total amount of data created was around 33 zettabytes (ZB) in 2018. That number was expected to increase to 175 ZB by 2025 — and even that enormous figure may be a low estimate. 

Over the past year, the rise of artificial intelligence (A.I.) has propelled the growth of cloud storage, and many organizations have scrambled to find robust, secure storage solutions.

More Enterprises Turn To Tape

The IDC’s report estimated that 15 percent of all data was stored on tape as of 2021. Data tape cartridges are perfectly suited to cold storage: They’re reliable, cost effective, and inherently secure — with appropriate system planning and implementation. 

And new technologies have eliminated some of the major drawbacks associated with tape-based formats. The Linear Tape Open (LTO) Program introduced the LTO-9 cartridge with resounding success, and the project plans to surpass the 1-petabyte-per-tape barrier by 2032. 

LTO cartridges can utilize the Linear Tape File System (LTFS) to provide HDD-like read access to datasets. While tape is fundamentally less accessible than other formats (such as hard drives or solid-state storage), LTFS and similar technologies can bridge the gap. 

Related: The Environmental Case for Data Tapes

For Enterprises, Data Tape Is A Powerful Tool For Controlling Costs

Data tapes provide a lower total cost of ownership (TCO) than other formats; LTO-9 currently costs around $0.0058, and their small physical footprint limits other organizational costs. By one estimate, LTO-8 — the previous generation of LTO storage — had a TCO 86% lower than disk solutions and 66% lower than cloud solutions over a 10-year period.

But at scale, management becomes a crucial predictor of total expenses. Tape systems must be built for scalability — regardless of their format — and managers should plan for future changes in backup technologies. That means planning for eventual data conversion, and wherever possible, setting up long-term strategies for upgrading key systems without data loss. 

Systems must be evaluated to ensure an adequate level of redundancy. Perhaps most importantly, businesses must have disaster recovery strategies that account for all potential threats (including ransomware and natural disasters).

These challenges aren’t unique to tape. In fact, tape storage is well-suited for compliance with security/privacy laws, and planning redundancy is certainly just as difficult for HDD-based systems.

Related: Ransomware Attacks and Tape Backups: Best Practices and Lessons Learned

Expert Resources for Tape Migration, Data Recovery, and More

If your enterprise is considering a switch to tape — or away from tape — we’re here to help. Total Data Migration maintains an extensive hardware library of current and legacy tape formats, and our team has experience with at-scale migration, data conversion, and disaster recovery.

With support for over 3000 native tape systems and backup formats, we’ve built our reputation as a world leader in data services. From data recovery to legacy system retirement, TDM provides comprehensive resources to help organizations manage tape — and optimize their systems for cold data storage.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

LTO-9 Data Recovery: Restoring Data from Damaged or Corrupt LTO-9 Media

The ninth generation of LTO (Linear Tape Open) introduced higher capacities and faster access speeds, providing a robust data storage solution for enterprise-level applications. However, no data storage medium is perfect: Data loss is always possible, even in systems with well-established redundancy. 

Total Data Migration (TDM) provides a comprehensive array of data recovery services for all tape media, including the entire LTO series of products. Our services include physical repair for torn tape and damaged cartridge components, performed in certified cleanrooms to protect against media contamination.

To get started, contact us via phone, email, or our online form. Read on for an overview of TDM’s LTO-9 data recovery services. 

Common Causes of LTO-9 Data Loss

While the LTO-9 format is still relatively new, the causes of data loss will fall into the same general categories as with other data tape media: 

  • Corruption due to mishandling, demagnetization, and software errors. LTO 9 drives read and write data on 8960 tracks. Although systems account for data errors, corruption remains a potential source of data loss. 
  • Infection with ransomware or malware. While tapes provide well-documented resistance against malware, some ransomware variants intentionally target backup systems. 
  • Physical damage due to wear-and-tear (for example, broken spindles), fire, and flooding.  
  • Backup software upgrades, which prevent organizations from reading data from legacy media. If the data is still intact on each set, TDM provides conversion as part of our media migration service. 

A Reliable Process for LTO-9 Data Recovery

As the world leader in data services, TDM has established a transparent process for data recovery projects. 

Evaluation and Statement of Work

After collecting basic information about the initial failure, we perform an analysis of the affected media and provide a Statement of Work (SOW). The SoW includes an estimated turnaround time, pricing, and options for restoring the data (dependent on the size of the recovered dataset and other factors).

Data Recovery

For physically damaged media, recovery techniques are performed in a certified cleanroom environment. All data recovery procedures are handled within closed networks, and chain of custody reports are available upon request. We prioritize security and confidentiality throughout the process. 

Restoring Data to Impacted Systems

Data may be returned via secure networks or encrypted media. We can also provide guidance for restoring the data to the affected system — or perform the restoration (remotely or on-site, depending on the characteristics of the case). 

All recovered data is evaluated and verified, and our satisfaction guarantee provides peace of mind throughout the project. 

LTO-9 Data Recovery Services from Total Data Migration

In addition to data recovery, TDM provides options for secure media sanitization, media migration, and data conversion. By offering a comprehensive solution for data tape management, we help our clients limit strain on their internal IT departments — and ensure the best possible return on investment. 

Other reasons to choose TDM for LTO-9 data recovery:

  • Full support for over 3,000 native tape systems and backup formats, ensuring a simple solution for mixed-media data recovery cases. 
  • An expansive hardware library allows for complete data restoration without access to original hardware or software. 
  • Compliance-ready services with encrypted return media, chain of custody reportage, and secure recovery laboratories. 
  • Options available for projects of all sizes, from individual LTO-9 tapes to entire datasets. 
  • Experienced engineers with decades of experience in tape media recovery. 

TDM helps you limit the costs of data recovery while providing efficient and reliable results. To get started, reach out to a data restoration expert today.

The Environmental Case for Data Tapes

The global need for data storage will continue to increase over the next decade — perhaps exponentially, thanks to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (A.I.), the Internet of Things (IOT), and other data-reliant tech.  

That growth will present an array of challenges. However, the potential environmental impact is particularly profound. According to a report from Berkeley National Laboratory, data storage represented up to 1.8% of the U.S. electrical consumption in 2014. In 2017, Forbes estimated that U.S. data centers consumed 90 billion kilowatt-hours of energy that year. 

Of course, data centers have strong incentives to limit energy consumption: Less power generally means more profits. Over time, data centers will find ways to improve efficiency. 

And for many data centers, that process includes the utilization of high-capacity data tapes.

Tapes can reduce environmental impact while extending storage capabilities. 

Hard drives remain the predominant storage solution for data centers, for somewhat obvious reasons: They’re inexpensive and relatively efficient. Solid-state drives (SSDs) have captured a portion of the market, but they’re most ideal for situations that require an exceptionally high degree of data availability — and that’s not the case for the vast majority of data. 

Inactive (or “cold”) data represents as much as 60% of worldwide data storage. By 2025, that number is expected to increase to 80 to 90%. 

Here’s where tape makes sense: Modern formats like LTO-9 offer a much lower price per-terabyte than hard drives. And over time, the sayings increase: Unlike hard drives, tapes can remain offline without consuming significant energy.

How much energy can be saved? That depends on the application, but the quick answer is quite a bit: TechTarget estimates that tape consumes up to 1,500 times less energy than a comparable storage array utilizing disks. 

Related: Why Tape-Based Data Storage Is Winning the Storage Wars

Tape cartridges have longer lifespans than hard drives.

Tape cartridges can retain data for upwards of 30 years, while hard drives have an expected operating life of 3-5 years. That latter number may be a low estimate; we’ve certainly seen hard drives operate for much longer under perfect conditions.

But the simple fact is that tape media needs to be replaced far, far less frequently than disk-based storage. That means a lower carbon footprint, even if tapes are occasionally migrated to newer formats. 

And with proper data sanitization techniques, tapes create significantly less electronic waste (or e-waste) than other solutions. Properly configured tape systems can also provide fast access to data via Linear Tape File System (LTFS) and similar technologies.

Related: Virtual Tape Libraries: Advantages and Disadvantages

By prioritizing tape, data centers can reduce e-waste and limit operating expenses.

The advantages of tape aren’t restricted to data centers, cloud computing providers, and other enterprise-level organizations: Even in less intensive applications, tapes can improve security with a relatively low total cost of ownership (TCO). 

But as the need for reliable storage continues to grow, data tapes will play an enormous role in preparing the hyperscale cloud architecture for those changes. 

At Total Data Migration, we’ve spent decades researching tape to provide secure solutions for migration, data conversion, media sanitization, and data recovery. We’re excited to help organizations adopt sustainable architecture — and build resilient, flexible systems that are prepared for the future.

For a free consultation, contact us via email or call (800) 460-7599.

 

How IBM and Fujifilm Created a 50TB Tape Cartridge

Fujifilm and IBM have announced the sixth-generation IBM 3592 JF, which boasts an incredible 50-terabyte (TB) native capacity. With 3:1 compression, the cartridge can store 150TB of data. 

For comparison, the current-generation IBM 3592 JD Advanced Data Tape Cartridge provides a mere 10TB/30TB of storage. The 3592 JD, which is currently available, retails for around $200 per cartridge.

Designed for use with the IBM TS1170 tape drive, the IBM 3592 JF represents a step forward in data storage technology. Its extreme areal density also sets the cartridge apart from the LTO-9, its most popular competitor: The LTO-9 offers a comparatively small 18TB in native storage (45TB compressed).

“With 50TB native capacity, 2.5 times the capacity of the previous highest-capacity tape cartridges, Fujifilm believes this breakthrough demonstrates the future potential of tape technology,” said Kei Nagata, deputy general manager of the industrial products division at Fujifilm. in a press release.

“The IBM 3592 JF tape cartridge is yet another milestone in many years of joint research and development with IBM, and we are honored to be the manufacturer of this product.”

The 50TB storage capacity is possible thanks to numerous innovations and refinements.

To achieve the areal density necessary for a 50TB tape cartridge, Fujfilm and IBM improved on technologies developed in previous tape generations. 

The most significant change was the physical size of the tape: By using a thinner and stronger base film to support the magnetic layer (which stores the data), Fujiflim was able to include 15% more tape in the cartridge.

Other innovations:

  • An improved thin-layer coating technology improves the signal-to-noise ratio by achieving a smoother tape surface.
  • Nanoparticle Design Technology (NDT) combines the technologies used in Barium Ferrite (BaFe) and Strontium Ferrite (SrFe) tapes, allowing for smaller magnetic particles with machine-readable magnetic properties.
  • High-dispersion technology to prevent the “aggregation of individual ultrafine magnetic particles.” Essentially, the tape’s magnetic particles are dispersed evenly, ensuring reliable storage at extreme areal density.

While the 3592 JF is an incredible achievement, its use case will be limited — at least, for now. 

Related: Why Tape-Based Data Storage Is Winning the Storage Wars

IBM is positioning the TS1170 for the upcoming enterprise storage boom

Most enterprises are more concerned with price than capacity. The 3592 JF can store about a petabyte of data on seven cartridges, but it’s expected to be expensive when compared with LTO-9 or other TS1170-ready cartridges; most organizations may not have the operational need to make the switch. 

IBM and Fujifilm are certainly aware of that fact, but that’s not the point of storage innovation; the goal is to show the viability of tape as a medium. That will be particularly important when organizations need to expand their archive capabilities to meet the needs of a changing IT landscape.

The artificial intelligence (A.I.) boom, for example, will inevitably lead cloud providers to explore options for at-scale storage. Those enterprises will gladly pay a premium for the small physical footprint of a system that uses 50TB cartridges.

Related: The LTO Roadmap: Breaking the Petabyte Barrier

As tape technology improves, organizations need robust migration strategies.

To realize the benefits of new storage technologies, enterprises need to retire legacy formats. That process can be intensive, particularly when data requires conversion to be made accessible with current-generation systems.

Total Data Migration provides comprehensive solutions for organizations of all sizes. From small data conversion projects to at-scale data migration and media sanitization, we work closely with clients to keep projects on track and within budget — while taking appropriate steps to maintain compliance. 

With support for thousands of combinations of storage technologies and backup applications, we’re prepared to handle your next project. Contact us at (800) 460-7599 to schedule a free consultation or click here for email contact info.

 

Tape Cartridge Data Recovery: 4 Factors to Consider

engineer removing a tape drive from a server rackFor professional data recovery technicians, tape cartridges present a unique set of challenges. While magnetic data tape formats share basic characteristics, each is fundamentally different — and to offer tape cartridge data recovery, a provider must also maintain an extensive archive of backup software.

Whether your data tapes have lost data due to oxidation, stiction, failed mechanisms, or for any other reason, you need a provider that can address the underlying issues without putting your media at risk. 

Total Data Migration offers comprehensive tape cartridge repair and data recovery services, along with solutions for at-scale migration and sanitization projects. 

Call us at 800-460-7599 or send us a message for a quote. Or, if you’re still researching your options, read on for key factors to keep in mind when searching for a data recovery provider. 

1. Professional tape cartridge recovery must be performed in a secure environment.

All data should be treated securely, but tape cartridges deserve special consideration. In the vast majority of cases, tape cartridges contain personally identifiable information (PII) and confidential company data — and even on archived data sets, compliance is a serious concern.

Total Data Migration can maintain chain of custody (COC) reports for aiding in compliance. We perform data recovery processes with closed (off-network) systems, and each technician follows strict protocols to keep data confidential at all times. 

Most importantly, we can provide detailed documentation about our data recovery workflow, along with media testing analyses and other crucial information. Data recovery should be documented thoroughly, and our process ensures complete transparency.

2. In many cases, the recovered data will need to be converted to a readable format.

Unless the damaged tape is part of a current data set, there’s a good chance that data will need to be converted to be usable. An experienced data recovery provider can return the data in a format that is compatible with your current backup application (or return the data in a directly usable native format, depending on your operation’s goals). 

Often, data recovery is carried out as part of a larger data migration or conversion project. Pairing recovery with at-scale conversion can reduce overall costs and help your organization build a more robust storage strategy. Learn more about our tape migration services work.

3. Data recovery providers must have adequate hardware and software to complete the recovery efficiently.

While it’s possible to source hardware for legacy tape media, this isn’t ideal — particularly when data needs to be recovered quickly. 

Total Data Migration supports over 3,500 combinations of backup tape media, formats, and environments. Our capabilities include (but are not limited to): 

  • All Linear Tape-Open (LTO) formats, including LTO-9.
  • All Digital Linear Tape (DLT) formats.
  • All Advanced Intelligent Tape / Super Advanced Intelligent Tape (AIT/SAIT) formats.
  • TS1160 and other IBM formats.
  • Reel-to-Reel, Mammoth, Travan, VXA, and more.

Additionally, we perform physical data recovery procedures in controlled environments. Cleanroom technology protects magnetic media from contaminants, while proprietary recovery tools ensure the integrity of the media throughout the repair process.

4. For the best results, look for a provider that specializes in tape-based media.

All data recovery services are highly specialized. However, tape cartridges require a specialized skill set and years of experience with various tape formats and backup solutions. 

We strongly recommend working with a data recovery provider that specializes in tape. Whether you’re restoring data from a single cartridge, a single data set, or an entire archive, Total Data Migration provides complete peace of mind as your case progresses. 

We regularly work with law firms, healthcare providers, and other clients that require strict security considerations, and all of our services feature our satisfaction guarantee. As a world leader in data services, we’re prepared to handle your next recovery project — and restore your files efficiently, affordably, and securely. 

Contact us at (800) 460-7599 to schedule a free consultation or click here for email contact info.

Why Tape-Based Data Storage Is Winning the Storage Wars

Data tape cartridges remain a formidable option for enterprise storage — and in many instances, tape remains the weapon of choice for IT administrators. Modern formats like LTO-9 are scalable, cost-effective, and most importantly, secure.  

In fact, tape cartridges are effectively winning the so-called “storage wars” — at least, in terms of sales. According to the LTO Program Technology Provider Companies, the total capacity (compressed) of LTO tapes reached 148.3 exabytes (EB) in 2022, an increase of 0.5% over the previous year. Meanwhile, hard drive shipments for the second quarter of 2023 fell 33.5% year-over-year.

Part of that discrepancy can be attributed to consumer demand. For home computer users, solid-state drives (SSDs) offer enormous performance advantages over hard disk drives (HDDs). While there’s certainly a price discrepancy between those technologies, it’s not too significant for most consumers.

But for IT administrators, SSD is rarely a practical option. Archives and backups need to be secure, but they don’t need to be especially fast — they simply need to be cost effective solutions. 

To that end, tape-based storage offers several distinct advantages over SSDs and HDDs in enterprise environments:

Data tapes provide a better TCO.

Per-gigabyte, tape media is relatively cheap, with LTO-9 weighing in around $0.0058 per gigabyte (GB). Hard drives are many times more expensive, averaging around $0.014 per gigabyte, though some enterprise models are somewhat cheaper. 

Even when accounting for the cost of hardware, tapes maintain a low total cost of ownership (TCO). One analysis found that LTO-8 provided a TCO that was 86% lower than disk solutions and 66% lower than cloud solutions over a 10-year period.

Related: Should You Migrate to LTO-8 or LTO-9?

Data tapes are inherently secure.

Every data storage medium requires unique security controls, but data tapes are uniquely positioned for compliance: Enterprises can easily create air-gapped backups to build resistance against ransomware and other threats. 

Tape management systems can further protect data by establishing access requirements. Even without a tape management system, solutions like RACF® tape volume security can keep data sets compliant with relevant security/privacy laws. 

Of course, hard drives can be secure — but tape hardware is inherently harder to acquire and use, so it’s less of an obvious target for bad actors. And with the rise of ransomware, air gapping has reemerged as a crucial security practice. 

Related: Ransomware Attacks and Tape Backups: Best Practices and Lessons Learned

While tape cartridges will remain viable for enterprise storage, data migration projects must be handled carefully.

Many enterprises are moving away from disk-based storage and cloud storage, or at least restricting the data that they trust to those mediums. 

But it’s important to recognize the limitations of any storage format. To build a robust archive/backup strategy, it’s essential to plan carefully: Whether you’re migrating to a new tape format, sanitizing legacy media, or switching to new backup software, the process must be handled carefully. 

Total Data Migration provides an extensive set of data services for businesses of all sizes. Whether you operate a law firm or a data center, we can help you find secure data management strategies that maintain compliance. 

Our services feature:

  • Support for over 3000 native tape systems and backup formats.
  • Data recovery resources for managing damaged or unreadable tapes.
  • Expert guidance for retiring legacy systems, migrating to new formats, and more.
  • On-site and remote options for balancing efficiency with compliance concerns.

If you’re considering a switch to tape — or a new approach that limits your TCO — we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

LTO-9 Full Height vs. Half Height: What’s the Difference?

As was true with other generations of the Linear Tape Open (LTO) format, LTO-9 hardware is available in two drive types: Full Height and Half Height.

The obvious difference between the two options is the physical size, and if you’re purchasing for a data center, that’s certainly crucial. Full Height drives occupy 2 rack units (2U), while Half Height drives are — you guessed it — 1U. 

The other major difference is performance:

  • LTO-9 Full Height drives can attain a native performance of around 400 megabytes per second (MBps) or 1000 MBps compressed.
  • LTO-9 Half Height drives can attain a native performance of around 300 MBps or 500 MBps compressed. 

These numbers are estimates of peak performance; tape drive manufacturers promote different claims for the performance capabilities of their Full/Half height products. 

Both Full and Half Height LTO-9 drives are backwards-compatible with LTO-8 cartridges. Note that throughput will be limited by the format (in other words, LTO-9 drives can read LTO-8 tapes, but at LTO-8 speeds). 

How Realistic Are LTO-9 Transfer Speeds?

It’s certainly possible to reach the peak speeds advertised by manufacturers — but in practice, this may be rare. 

Depending on the amount of data you’re transferring, the type of data, IP network overhead, and various other factors, you might expect to reach around 50% of the LTO-9’s throughput capacity on most days. A sustained throughput of 400 MBps would be rare, outside of highly specific applications. 

But tape drive hardware plays a crucial role in determining throughput. LTO-9 Full Height drives may be well worth the investment for enterprise data centers, as their faster speeds can greatly reduce the cost of the system over time. 

Related: Planning an LTO-9 Migration Strategy

LTO-9 Tape Migration: Planning the Project

One of the challenges of tape data migration is sourcing sufficient hardware, particularly if you’re moving from formats without cross-compatibility. Your goal is to migrate key datasets to the new format as efficiently as possible — while maintaining appropriate security/privacy controls, and without overburdening your IT staff. 

Total Data Migration can help. Our experts have decades of experience with digital storage media, and with support for thousands of combinations of tape cartridge and backup software, we provide flexible resources for planning (and executing) a migration. 

If you’re considering a switch to LTO-9 — or if you’ve already invested in the project — send us a message. Call (800) 460-7599 to schedule a free consultation or click here for email contact info.

Planning an LTO-9 Migration Strategy

With the introduction of Linear Tape Open (LTO) Ultrium 9 standard, many enterprises are considering (or actively planning for) migration.

LTO-9 boasts a 50% increase in capacity over LTO-8, with a compressed capacity of 45 terabytes (TB). It’s also substantially faster: Uncompressed data transfer rates can reach 400 megabytes per second (MBps). 

If you’re considering LTO-9 migration, there’s good news: Migrating from LTO-8 is straightforward, thanks to the LTO format’s backwards-compatibility. But every migration project requires thoughtful planning — and a qualified data partner can make a difference.

Below, we’ll discuss several general tips for LTO-9 migration. If you’re ready to discuss your migration project, send us a message to connect with an expert.

Determine which tapes will be part of the migration. 

Few data centers will need to perform a 1:1 tape migration; if you’re ready to upgrade, there’s a good chance that you’ll eliminate certain legacy tapes. That’s particularly true if your archives include cartridges in several different formats; part of the goal of the migration is to simplify your backup/archival infrastructure. 

To perform an accurate analysis, collect as much information as possible about current backups and archives. At the bare minimum, your notes should include:

  • The total number of tape cartridges in each format.
  • The names and versions of the backup applications.
  • The age of the oldest data sets.

With the information in front of you, you’ll be able to make informed decisions. You may decide to let older data sets age out before the process starts, or you may elect to purchase additional legacy hardware to improve the efficiency of the migration.

Understand the limits of LTO’s backwards compatibility. 

Most generations of LTO are backwards-compatible for two generations. However, that changed with LTO-8. If you have LTO-7 tapes — or any older cartridges — you’ll need to make considerations for hardware when planning the migration. 

The bottom line: LTO-9 drives can read LTO-8 tapes, at LTO-8 speeds (no faster). LTO-9 hardware cannot read LTO-7 or earlier, for a simple reason: LTO-9 and LTO-8 drives use TMR (Tunneling Magnetoresistive) read/write heads, which allow for a substantially higher areal density. 

Once again, it’s wise to ask a few quick questions:

  • Will the tape migration project include older LTO formats? 
  • If so, do I have sufficient hardware to migrate the older tapes with reasonable efficiency?
  • What will be the approximate timeframe of the migration, given the performance limitations of backwards-compatible LTO-9 drives? 

At this point, you can begin making purchasing decisions about LTO-9 hardware. Remember, you’re not planning just for the migration — you’re making long-term decisions that affect your organization’s scalability. 

Choose hardware for the migration.

LTO-9 drives are available as Full Height and Half Height models. Apart from their physical dimensions, the only difference between the two is performance: 

  • LTO-9 Full Height drives have a native conformance of up to 400MBps (1000 MBps compressed). When accessing LTO-8 cartridges, LTO-9 Full Height drives can reach speeds of 360 MBps (900 MBps compressed).
  • LTO-9 Half Height drives have a native conformance of up to 300MBps (500 MBps compressed). They can read LTO-8 cartridges with approximately the same performance.

Of course, a major reason for migration is improved throughput — but half height drives may be a practical addition to your infrastructure, particularly if you’re handling a large migration from LTO-8 on your own. 

Don’t assign the migration to an overworked IT team.

Every tape migration project has unique challenges. In general, IT teams can handle those challenges, but handling those challenges efficiently is another story. 

By working with a data partner, you can remove many of the bottlenecks that impact major tape migration projects. That’s particularly true when moving to a current-generation format: Your partner can help you select datasets for migration, manage hardware, and maintain appropriate security controls throughout the process.

At Total Data Migration, we’re dedicated to providing our clients with best-practice guidance during major migration and catalog ingestion projects. Features of our services include:

  • Options for onsite and remote migration.
  • An extensive library of legacy hardware and backup software, which allows for reliable turnaround times.
  • Dedicated experts with decades of experience in at-scale data management. 
  • Resources for tape cartridge data recovery, data conversion, and secure data sanitization.

If your organization is considering an LTO-9 tape migration project, we’re ready to help. Contact us at (800) 460-7599 to schedule a free consultation or click here for email contact info.

Virtual Tape Libraries: Advantages and Disadvantages

Virtual Tape Libraries (VTLs) are long-term storage solutions that simulate data tape hardware while using an array of hard drives (HDDs) for the actual storage.

Many organizations have established processes for handling data archives. Enterprises may be reliant on certain backup software or recovery processes, which makes traditional tape migration impractical or undesirable. 

A VTL offers a “best of both worlds” middle ground; the organization can retain their current backup/archival strategy while improving efficiency and reducing the time spent on data restoration. The VTL can be coordinated with traditional tape backups to reduce the physical space utilization of onsite hardware.

Of course, if virtual tape libraries were perfect, there would be no reason to use actual tape cartridges — but physical tape libraries continue to capture market share from HDD-based systems. 

But VTLs make sense for many organizations, particularly enterprises with relatively well-defined backup/archive protocols. Below, we’ll discuss some of the major advantages and disadvantages of VTL utilization.

Advantages of Virtual Tape Libraries: Faster Restoration, Lower Deployment Costs

Generally, VTLs have lower initial deployment costs than new tape hardware, although the cost of implementation can vary. VTL solutions can function with all popular backup/archival applications, and the enterprise won’t need to change its practices to put the new system to use.

Other major advantages of VTLs:

  • The entire storage capacity of the disk array is available.
  • RAID can provide several layers of redundancy, but with optimal data deduplication for better overall storage utilization.
  • Hard drives are generally more efficient for read processes than legacy tape cartridges, especially when utilizing RAID. 
  • VTL can significantly reduce disaster recovery time, particularly when compared with legacy tape formats.
  • VTLs support random access, while most legacy tape formats only support sequential data access.
  • In crowded datacenters, VTLs may utilize physical space more effectively.

But while virtual tape libraries are effective for many applications, they’re not without their faults — and advances in tape storage technology have nullified some of the benefits.

Disadvantages of Virtual Tape Libraries: Less Resiliency, High Long-Term Costs

One of the major advantages of tape is air-gapping, which provides protection against ransomware and other data security hazards. An air-gapped backup can be isolated from the rest of the data storage infrastructure, ensuring that the enterprise has a recovery option in worst-case scenarios. 

VTLs are not air-gapped, nor are they intended to be transported outside of the data center; the VTL essentially acts as an onsite archive. High-capacity tapes can be easily taken off site or offline, so they’re ideal for creating “golden copies,” which are crucial for protecting against malware. 

Other advantages of data tape cartridges over VTLs:

  • Current tape cartridge formats are significantly less expensive per-gigabyte than hard drives. At the time of writing, LTO-9 has a cost of about $0.0058/GB, and that price will continue to decrease in future generations.
  • Modern tape cartridges can utilize file systems such as LTFS to mimic random access (though it’s worth noting that “mimic” is a key phrase — LTFS, while powerful, is still limited to the physics of the tape cartridge). 
  • In most operations, VTLs are not a full replacement for tapes; they’re intended as a complement to tape infrastructure. As a result, disaster recovery may not be any faster with a VTL in place — and the complexity of VTL implementation may actually add to the time needed for recovery.

Creating a Strategy for Data Archiving and Disaster Recovery

Ultimately, most enterprises require a combination of VTLs and physical tapes. To optimize the benefits of VTLs or physical tapes, the storage infrastructure must be designed for the organization’s specific needs. Any new implementation must be planned carefully, particularly if the goal is to limit tape hardware or to migrate away from a certain tape format.

If you’re considering a switch to VTL, or if you’re looking for ways to optimize your backup/archival processes, Total Data Migration can help. 

With an extensive library of tape hardware, access to hundreds of current & legacy backup applications, and decades of experience, we create sustainable, cost-efficient strategies for data migration. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

The LTO Roadmap: Breaking the Petabyte Barrier

The Linear Tape Open (LTO) Program plans on surpassing the 1-petabyte (PB) barrier by 2032, addressing the growing global need for high-capacity data storage solutions. The LTO Program is a joint effort at maintaining and developing linear tape standards. The organization includes representatives from Hewlett Packard Enterprise , IBM, and Quantum Corporation.

This year, much of the organization’s efforts have focused on adoption of the LTO-9, which delivers an 18-terabyte (TB) native capacity and a compressed capacity of up to 45 TB. That’s an improvement over LTO-8’s 12TB/30TB capacity, but the primary benefit of LTO-9 is the cartridge’s faster data transfer rates (up to 400 MBps with 2.5:1 compression). 

Like previous generations of LTO Ultrium, LTO-9 is backwards-compatible with LTO-8, which makes the format an attractive option for enterprises that need to update their backup/archive strategies. 

But in the future, LTO generations will need to offer significantly increased capacities to meet growing global data storage requirements.  

The LTO Roadmap: Doubling Capacity with Each New Generation

Previous generations of LTO have doubled the capacity of the previous generation. That changed with LTO-9, but the LTO Program insists that future generations will resume doubling the previous generation’s storage.

According to the current LTO Roadmap:

  • LTO-10 will feature a native capacity of up to 36 TB and a compressed capacity of up to 90 TB.
  • LTO-11 will feature a native capacity of up to 72 TB and a compressed capacity of up to 180 TB.
  • LTO-12 will feature a native capacity of up to 144 TB and a compressed capacity of up to 360 TB.
  • LTO-13 will feature a native capacity of up to 288 TB and a compressed capacity of up to 720 TB.
  • LTO-14 will feature a native capacity of up to 576 TB and a compressed capacity of up to 1.4 PB.

While the LTO Roadmap is subject to change, the Program expects to surpass 1 petabyte per cartridge by 2032. 

And that may not be wishful thinking: Back in 2020, IBM and Fujifilm demonstrated a linear tape with an areal density of 317 gigabits per square inch. That set a record in tape storage — and demonstrated that areal densities can continue to grow substantially with investments in technology.

To reach the milestone, Fujifilm developed strontium ferrite (SrFe), which could allow future linear tapes to maintain high areal density while maintaining acceptable read/write speeds.

The Global Tape Storage Market Continues to Grow

The data tape industry has seen unprecedented growth in recent years. Enterprises will need robust solutions for their growing storage needs — and modern tape formats can address those needs.

“LTO tape is more relevant than ever as low-cost, sustainable storage for long-term data archiving, and as a secure data storage option for strengthening cybersecurity,” says Sam Werner, VP, Storage Product Management at IBM, in a press release. 

“With specifications now defined through generation 14, LTO tape is poised to support rapid and accelerating data growth. It offers organizations a sustainable, reliable, and low-cost solution to protect and store their critical business data.”

Creating Secure Strategies for Tape Migration

Of course, organizations must plan tape migration projects carefully — and form long-term strategies for switching to new formats. 

As tape capacities grow, each cartridge will pose greater potential security risks, which can be exposed during migration. And while IT teams may have extensive experience with legacy formats, migration will require more resources with each successive generation. 

Total Data Migration assists enterprises in creating sustainable, cost-effective strategies for tape backups and archives. If you’re planning on switching to LTO-9 — or adjusting your disaster recovery strategy to address the threat of ransomware — we’re here to help. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Data Tape Destruction: Maintaining Compliance at Scale

Hand removing a data tape from an archiveProper data sanitization isn’t optional: If your enterprise stores sensitive data, you have an ethical obligation (and in most cases, a legal obligation) to follow appropriate protocols for storage media destruction. 

The most commonly cited standards for data tape destruction can be found in the NIST’s Special Publication 800-88 (PDF), which also outlines processes for sanitizing hard drives, solid-state drives, and other data storage media.   

However, at scale, following the NIST’s recommendations — along with other specific compliance standards — can be difficult. Depending on the characteristics of your data, you may need to retain records of all processes used to treat media.

Additionally, every tape must undergo identical processes, and the results of sanitization must be regularly audited and verified. A single LTO-8 cartridge has a compressed storage capacity of 30 terabytes (TB), and an improperly handled degaussing could put enormous amounts of personally identifiable information at risk. A 10-cm piece of tape from an LTO-8 cartridge may contain 3 gigabytes of data.

If you’re planning a large-scale data tape sanitization project, here are key considerations to keep in mind.

Choosing a Compliant Tape Destruction Process

NIST 800-88 outlines three basic options for sanitization: 

  • Clear – Intended only for media that will remain within an organization. Clearing consists of overwriting data at least one time with known non-sensitive signals. As the NIST notes, clearing by overwriting may be impractical for most applications, since overwrites require extensive time.
  • Purge – Data that will leave an organization’s control may be purged by degaussing magnetic tape in an organizationally approved degausser rated at a minimum for the media.
  • Destroy – Tapes should be incinerated in a licensed incinerator or shredded.

As we’ve discussed in other articles, incineration carries a heavy environmental cost, and maintaining an appropriate chain of custody can be difficult. Shredding is secure when handled correctly — but shredding processes are mostly automatic. 

NIST requires shredders to use a shred size that is “small enough that there is reasonable assurance in proportion to the data confidentiality, that the data cannot be reconstructed.”

Given the extreme density of modern tape cartridges, we believe that typical media shredders are not secure enough for data tape sanitization. Total Data Migration’s team was able to reconstruct some data from a set of LTO tapes shredded to 6 millimeters — bad actors could certainly gain valuable data with access to shredded media.

Planning for At-Scale Data Tape Destruction

The safest practice is to purge tapes with an appropriate degausser, then shred the media (if necessary) to comply with NIST 800-88 and other standards. 

But with large libraries of tapes, this is easier said than done. Degaussing relies on tape orientation, so operators must have a working knowledge of data storage. 

Operators must also identify each tape and keep accurate documentation. It’s a time-consuming process — and if you’re assigning your IT staff to data sanitization, they’ll have less time to spend on other duties.

Safe and Efficient Data Tape Sanitization for At-Scale Applications

For larger tape cartridge sanitization and destruction projects, we strongly recommend working with a reputable tape partner. Managing compliance requires equipment, time, and experience — and an expert partner can reduce the cost of your project while ensuring a quick turnaround. 

Advantages of working with Total Data Migration for your next tape destruction project:

  • Reliable turnaround times. By maintaining appropriately related degaussers — and a staff of data experts — we’re able to provide fast turnarounds, even for archive-level collections.
  • Compliance-ready documentation. We maintain a secure chain of custody and can provide written verification of compliant purge-and-destroy processes.
  • Full support for data migration. In many cases, data tape destruction occurs as the last step of a tape migration project. As world leaders in professional tape services, we can help you plan and execute an efficient migration. 

Whether you’re following NIST 800-88 or another standard, Total Data Migration is here to help. Call us today at (800) 460-7599 to find solutions for your next data destruction project.

A Brief History of Tape Data Storage 

Magnetic tapes have played an integral role in data storage for more than 70 years. Today, the tape data storage market continues to grow — while the market for hard drives has started to wane.

Below, we’ll provide an overview of the history of data storage. For guidance with a tape migration project, read: Planning Tape Data Migration: 5 Key Factors for Success or send us a message to connect with an expert.

1951: Magnetic Tape Becomes a Data Storage Standard

Prior to the 1950s, magnetic tape was widely used for audio storage. That changed with the UNIVAC I (Universal Automatic Computer), the first American computer created for civilian administrative use. 

The UNIVAC 1 had a basic internal memory capable of storing 100 words with 12 characters each, but for many applications, this was insufficient. The UNIVAC 1 supported up to 10 UNISERVO tape drives, which stored data in fixed-size blocks of 60 words (again, with 12 characters each). 

1956: The First Hard Drives Enter the Market

The IBM Model 350 was the first commercially available hard drive, and it was immediately a viable alternative to magnetic tape. 

The Model 350 could store 3.75 megabytes on fifty 24-inch disks — an incredible achievement for the time. While it was relatively expensive (lease agreements cost $750 per month), its enormous capacity made it essential for many applications. 

Subsequent generations doubled the capacity of each previous generation of hard drive. That trend continued for decades, but tape storage remained critical. 

1961: IBM Introduces the IBM 7340

The IBM 7340 Hypertape was designed for scientific workloads, with major improvements to processing speed and storage capacity. It was notable for being one of the first dual-reel cassettes — a precursor to the tape cartridges that became commonplace in data centers several decades later. 

During the early age of computing, mass data storage devices were only attainable (and necessary) for specific uses. Colleges and government offices could afford to purchase tape drives and lease hard drives, but the home computer revolution brought much more significant changes to data storage technology.

1970s – 1980s: Compact Cassettes Become Standard for Home Computers

Technically, home computers were available in the 1970s, but these “microcomputers” were mostly popular with hobbyists. As microprocessors became more affordable, home computing became practically possible.

The Apple II series, introduced in 1977, supported floppy disks, hard drives, and Smartport storage. And in 1982, the Commodore 64 (C64) became a dominant player in the low-end home computing market. 

The Commodore Datasette 300 baud tape interface enabled users to install applications and store personal data. Since the tapes could “download” audio data, some radio and television stations would broadcast software for users to record and install on their C64s. 

1980s: The Growth of the Commercial Tape Backup Industry 

As computers became more affordable, commercial enterprises looked for ways to back up extensive amounts of data. The computing industry responded, introducing a number of high-density formats:

  • Digital Linear Tape (DLT), introduced by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) in 1984.
  • The IBM 3480 family, a one-half inch cartridge introduced in 1984.
  • Data 8, an eight-millimeter helical scan magnetic cassette introduced by Sony in 1987. 
  • Digital Data Storage (DDS), based on Digital Audio Tape (DAT) format and introduced in 1989.

These tape cartridges featured progressively faster read/write speeds, more storage, and improved longevity. However, the lack of a consistent standard introduced problems: Organizations would need to regularly migrate to new formats to take advantage of the improvements in the tech. 

2000: Linear Tape-Open (LTO) Provides an Open Standard for Data Storage

In the late 1990s, Hewlett Packard, IBM, and Quantum established the LTO Consortium, which developed the LTO Ultrium format as an affordable alternative to proprietary tape cartridges. 

The refined “super tape” addressed many data storage challenges:

  • All LTO formats are backwards-compatible with at least one previous generation.
  • Each generation dramatically extends the capacity of the previous generation. LTO-9, the latest format at the time of publication, provides an 18-terabyte native capacity, and LTO-10 is expected to feature twice the capacity.
  • From LTO-3 onwards, the format is WORM (Write Once, Read Many) capable.
  • From LTO-4 onwards, LTO tapes are encryption capable. 
  • The Linear Tape File System (LTFS), introduced with LTO-5, allows users to access data similarly to conventional storage devices like hard drives and flash drives, bypassing one of the major drawbacks of read-only magnetic storage.

Of course, hard drive technology continued to improve during the 1990s and 2000s, but tape storage remained essential for data archiving and enterprise backup. 

2020s: The Rise of Ransomware and Continued Growth

Today, many enterprises and data centers continue to rely on tape cartridges — for good reason.

tapes in a data center

Tapes can insulate organizations from the threat of ransomware by providing air-gapped storage, and the LTO Ultrium 9 format boasts a lower per-terabyte cost than commercial hard drives. Tapes allow for improved archival scalability, and they’re generally more secure than other storage solutions (depending on the design of the system). 

At Total Data Migration, we’ve sung the praises of tape storage for decades. Given that the market continues to outpace the market for hard drive storage, we’ve made some accurate predictions. 

If you’re considering a data project, we’re prepared to help. Our experts can help your organization form a tape migration strategy, securely sanitize legacy media, and limit exposure to ransomware and other malware.

To learn more, send us a message to schedule a consultation.

Data Tape Storage Market Continues to Grow

The market for data storage tapes continues to grow, boosted by the strong adoption of the LTO-9 format. 

LTO (Linear Tape Open) remains the most popular format for magnetic tape storage, though many enterprises still rely on legacy solutions like DLT (Digital Linear Tape) and AIT (Advanced Intelligent Tape). LTO-9 features a capacity of 18 terabytes (TB) native and 45 TB compressed, with compressed transfer rates of up to 1,000 megabytes per second — impressive selling points for enterprises that are looking to limit the cost of an archiving project.

According to a joint press release from the LTO Program Technology Provider Companies, 148.3 exabytes (EB) of total tape capacity were shipped in the fourth quarter of 2022, a modest increase over the same period in 2021. 

By 2027, the aggregated capacity of LTO tapes is expected to total 207.1 EB. Meanwhile, worldwide shipments of hard drives have declined. Data centers and enterprises are relying on tapes more than ever. 

And given the sizable benefits of tape storage, the trend is understandable.

Data Tape Migration Limits Costs — And Significantly Improves Security

For buyers, the primary advantage of LTO-9 and other modern formats is cost: LTO-9 cartridges currently sell for about $0.004/GB, while the least expensive enterprise hard drives sell for about $0.006/GB. 

Tapes also have a longer storage life, which makes them preferable for archival projects. Perhaps most importantly, tapes are inherently ideal for air-gapped backups and archives — and given the growing threat of ransomware, air-gapped backups have become an essential security control. 

Many ransomware variants target backups, which can include tape systems. However, cloud and local backups are much more susceptible to typical ransomware attack vectors; data tapes, when employed appropriately, are a more robust solution.

But in order to enjoy the business benefits of tape storage, enterprises must handle migration carefully.

Migrating Data To Tape Requires A Thoughtful Approach

Switching from one tape format to another is rarely a straightforward process. While all LTO formats are backwards-compatible for read activities for at least one generation, changes in an enterprises’ backup and data organization strategies must be considered.

catalog of data storage tapesAnd since most enterprises “skip” generations to limit costs, they commonly face other issues when carrying out a tape migration project. Upgrading backup/archival software, sourcing tape drive hardware for older archives, and converting legacy data to current formats.

There’s another crucial factor to consider: Time. Few IT departments have the necessary staff to carry out a major tape migration project without sacrificing productivity in other areas. 

Tape migration requires a dedicated, knowledgeable staff. Errors can lead to significant security and privacy concerns, and a poorly documented migration can cause compliance issues.

Work With The Leader In Data Migration

Total Data Migration provides comprehensive services to assist enterprises in at-scale migration (and adoption) projects. From system design and implementation to legacy system retirement and tape disposal, we offer secure, compliant solutions.

Advantages of working with Total Data Migration:

  • Full support for over 3,000 native tape systems, backup formats, data types, and voice loggers.
  • Expert guidance for projects that involve multiple types of systems or data formats.
  • A dedicated staff for fast transitions between tape formats or for tape-to-cloud/cloud-to-tape migration.
  • Comprehensive chain-of-custody reports for worry-free compliance.
  • Data recovery options for restoring damaged or failed tapes.
  • Compliant data sanitization solutions for digital tape media, hard disk drives, optical media, and more.
  • An array of full-lifecycle services for managing (and maintaining) storage media.

Whether you’re planning a migration or addressing issues with your current backup/archive configuration, we’re ready to assist. With decades of experience and flexible service options, Total Data Migration provides the resources to create a secure, cost-effective strategy.

Send us a message to learn more or to schedule a consultation.

4 Tips for Successful Database Migration

DATA MIGRATION

Migrating data from one database to another can be beneficial for a number of reasons. The new database might offer enhanced security, better performance, or more scalability — and if your current data ecosystem is heavily fragmented or outdated, migration can provide an immediate return on investment. 

 

However, database migration can be risky without an appropriate strategy. Data loss, data conversion, and unexpected downtime can easily extend the timeline.

 

Total Data Migration regularly handles enterprise DB migration projects, and by leveraging decades of expertise with an expansive set of hardware and software tools, we’re able to help our clients expedite their projects. Contact us to learn more or read on for tips for planning a successful database migration.

 

1. Identify the target for database migration — and establish clear goals.

 

As with any large-scale project, database migration requires a clear scope. You’ll need to outline your project carefully and document every process as you progress through each phase. The vast majority of database migration mistakes occur during this planning stage.

 

Some questions to consider:

 

  • What data will be migrated? 
  • What methodologies will be used to identify redundant data?
  • What storage media is currently used for the target data (cloud storage, backup tapes, etc.)?
  • Is the data standardized across all target media?
  • Can archival data be converted to match the target format?
  • What controls are in place to prevent data loss?
  • Will database migration occur in one operation (“big bang” data migration) or in phases?

 

This last question is particularly important. “Big bang” data migration, while resource intensive, is sometimes necessary to limit downtime. However, phase-based migration (also called “trickle data migration”) carries lower risks.

 

If you’re operating on an established timeline, we strongly recommend working with an experienced database migration partner. Total Data Migration can help your organization plan effectively — and address unexpected challenges that occur during the execution. 

 

Related: Planning Tape Data Migration: 5 Key Factors for Success

 

2. Don’t roll database migration into another project.

 

If you’re migrating a large amount of data, there’s a good chance that you’re making other changes to your IT infrastructure or data governance policies. We often work with enterprises that migrate databases when switching to new archival software, for instance, or when upgrading software to improve performance and scalability.

 

It’s important to treat database migration as its own project, not as a subset of a larger change. The challenges of migration vary from company to company — no two projects are exactly the same, and your team will need flexibility to respond to bottlenecks and unexpected issues.

If migration is part of a larger project, that flexibility may not be available, and teams may have difficulty communicating. The cost of the project (and the potential for unexpected downtime) will grow. 

 

In other words, once you’ve established the scope of the project, stick to it. 

 

3. Don’t assign the entire project to your IT team.

 

Your IT team may be capable of executing database migration on its own — but they probably shouldn’t. Depending on your IT department’s capabilities, they may not be able to execute the operation within the expected timeline while handling other duties (not to mention the additional workloads of data validation, backup, and disaster recovery). 

 

Involving other departments will help to minimize errors and operational interruptions. However, even with an all-hands-on-deck approach, third-party experts can be a valuable resource. 

 

An experienced migration partner will provide an excellent return on investment regardless of the size or characteristics of the data. By anticipating bottlenecks and establishing clear data controls, your migration partner will keep your project on track and within budget. 

 

4. Have a testing strategy in place.

 

Needless to say, your enterprise should see better performance after migration than your baseline performance. If you’re not executing load and performance testing, however, you can’t determine whether the project was a success or whether future errors will impact data availability.

 

Your database migration partner can help you form a testing strategy that includes both high-level analysis and query-specific optimization. Depending on the type of data and the target storage infrastructure, free (or low-cost) monitoring tools can be enormously helpful, but without experienced analysis, you’ll have trouble separating the signal from the noise — particularly if you’re migrating a large amount of archival data. 

 

Total Data Migration provides onsite and remote resources for all types of database migration projects. Whether you’re upgrading to a new database format or reducing operational costs by moving data tapes to the cloud, our experts can help your team maintain the quality of migrated data while complying with all security and privacy requirements. Get started by scheduling a consultation.

Planning Tape Data Migration: 5 Key Factors for Success

DATA MIGRATION

Data tape migration isn’t an everyday process, but it’s a crucial undertaking when upgrading to new backup software or switching to a new format. Moving terabytes of data requires extensive knowledge and expertise; unfortunately, most IT departments are ill-equipped to handle the work without seriously compromising other essential activities.

By planning tape data migration carefully, organizations can address some of the common pain points of the process — and keep migration within an established timeframe and budget.

Total Data Migration provides extensive resources to help enterprises create functional strategies. With support for every tape format and every backup/archival solution, we offer a streamlined process for performing migration while maintaining full compliance with security and privacy standards.

Contact us to learn more or read on to learn some of the most important factors that affect the outcome of enterprise tape migration projects.

1. Set clear requirements and goals for tape migration projects.

No two tape migration projects are identical, but most share similar goals:

● Reduce the physical footprint of backup/archival media
● Remove the cost of legacy systems
● Improve data accessibility by creating an accurate catalog of all backup/archive media
● Improve access speeds by moving data to the cloud or switch to a current-generation tape format

● Maintain compliance with data security standards throughout the process

To meet these goals, you’ll need to perform an analysis of your existing media and backup systems. Collect information about the data formats, backup software, the number of tapes, the media storage environment, and any industry-specific security standards that need to be maintained. Your tape migration partner can use this information to establish project requirements and provide a Statement of Work (SOW).

2. Don’t assign tape migration processing to an overloaded IT team.

Many enterprises attempt to handle tape migration internally. Unless your team has experience with migration, this can be a costly mistake: IT departments rarely have the bandwidth for large-scale tape processing, and very few have access to the necessary equipment for media repair and sanitization.

Look for a tape partner with a strong track record of enterprise media migration. Ask about their capabilities and technologies. Prior to the beginning of the project, you should receive a full SOW establishing the project timeline and requirements.

Total Data Migration maintains an enormous collection of drives and systems, along with a wide range of autoloaders, libraries, and other automation tools. As the industry leader in remote and onsite tape migration, we offer a scalable, secure solution.

3. Create (and test) tape migration catalogs.

For most organizations, one of the primary considerations in tape migration is data accessibility. If you’re confronted with a litigation or regulatory request, will you be able to extract important files quickly?

Accurate cataloging is absolutely essential. By the end of the project, you should have complete lists of every file on each tape or tape set. Just as importantly, the data should be accessible with your current systems — data conversion may be necessary to ensure that your new backup solution is compatible with legacy data.

4. Be prepared for unexpected challenges.

On paper, every tape migration project is fairly straightforward. In reality, that’s almost never the case.

Your tape migration partner should be able to address the challenges of migration, which may include:

● Data recovery for damaged tapes
● Data conversion for older backup solution formats
● Replacement of hardware that becomes damaged during migration
● Cataloging data that appears in unexpected formats or with atypical file organization

Needless to say, media migration is a specialized process. If a vendor doesn’t maintain licenses for legacy backup solutions — or an extensive library of tape hardware — the project will stall, potentially adding to the final cost.

After migration, legacy media needs to be securely destroyed in conformance with relevant standards. This isn’t as simple as it sounds: Common media destruction techniques like degaussing, shredding, and incineration can fail to meet the NIST’s Guidelines for Media Sanitization.

Again, it’s important to choose a tape partner that understands the importance of proper media sanitization. A randomized selection of media should be checked (and re-checked) to ensure that sanitization is successful, and your enterprise should receive documentation that clearly demonstrates the outcome.

If your organization is considering a tape migration project, TDM can help. Contact us at (800) 460-7599 to schedule a free consultation or click here for email contact info.

Email Retention and Litigation: How Backup Tapes Create Issues for Attorneys

In litigation, relevant communications are invaluable evidence, and emails frequently play key roles in court decisions and settlements. Many organizations are required by law to retain all emails for a specific period — and when litigation begins, email retention requirements must be executed immediately and thoroughly.

Today, most enterprises have established email retention policies for all (data regardless of specific compliance requirements) in order to ensure that archives will be available when litigation occurs. Modern data tape cartridges like LTO (and earlier formats like DLT, DDS, and AIT) offer numerous advantages for archiving, as they’re relatively easy to maintain securely while managing costs.

For attorneys, however, data tapes can present problems. Even if an organization executes a near-perfect archival strategy, accessing emails on data tapes can prove difficult — and expensive. An experienced tape partner can help attorneys address the challenges while reducing the cost and timeframe of email retrieval.

Most law firms don’t have appropriate onsite resources for data tape restoration.

Restoring email archives from data tapes requires specialized hardware, software, and expertise. While many law firms have capable IT departments that regularly work with certain backup tape formats, most don’t have significant experience with every single format — not to mention different email file formats and security controls.

Additionally, data migration requires a targeted approach during litigation. Finding relevant data from a large data set can be a time-consuming process, even for seasoned IT professionals. Emails are especially critical for e-discovery efforts, but a single data tape archive might hold hundreds of thousands of emails, most of which will be irrelevant to the case.

Your migration partner can make the process much less labor intensive. Total Data Migration maintains an onsite hardware library with a comprehensive set of legacy and current-generation tape drives. Because our team has decades of experience with various email formats and operating systems — and the unique challenges that accompany litigation — we’re able to return relevant data in ready-to-access formats. If your office is comfortable with Outlook PSTs, for instance, we can ensure that the restored files are accessible without compromising the privacy or security of the documents.

Improperly accessing retained emails on data tapes can create chain of custody concerns.

Law firms often attempt to handle email discovery in-house out of concern for the chain of custody. Ironically, this can have the opposite of the intended effect: The firm’s IT staff takes on the time-consuming work, but make key mistakes with the restored data due to unfamiliarity with the tape migration process.

When litigation requires large-scale access to data tapes, professional tape migration services are essential — but the tape migration partner needs to understand the importance of the chain of custody. Recovered evidence may be declared inadmissible without detailed documentation. This documentation shows that the electronic evidence is essentially unchanged; an experienced tape migration partner can help attorneys demonstrate that file format conversions and other essential activities have not substantially altered the condition of the emails.

Different email and backup software formats can lead to excessive migration timeframes.

Many enterprises update their systems regularly to improve security and efficiency. Unfortunately, this isn’t always followed by updates to archiving practices; we regularly work with clients that maintain archives in various formats for retention purposes. Migrating data to a single format can be expensive, particularly for larger archives, and enterprises often delay migration as long as possible.

During discovery requests, this can create significant challenges. To present retained data, the organization will need to convert older archives to a current format, which can take a tremendous amount of time. Some courts may recognize this as a hardship, but attorneys can’t rely on that argument — the court may also determine that since the organization cannot access the data in a reasonable timeframe, they’ve failed to comply with retention orders.

Once again, a knowledgeable tape partner can help attorneys address this problem. By drawing on experience with various email file formats, backup software implementations, and archival infrastructures, our team can help to reduce the tape migration timeframe. We work with clients to convert data into readable formats, identify key files, and provide access to relevant emails (or other files, depending on the requirements of the case).

Total Data Migration has an established reputation as the tape restoration partner of choice for government agencies, eDiscovery providers, legal firms, and litigation service providers. To discuss onsite and remote options for litigation-related email restoration, contact us today to set up a consultation.