Rethinking Tape Storage Connectivity: Why Ethernet Beats Traditional Methods
By Azim Malik, Product Manager, ATTO Technology, Inc.
The AI, cloud, and edge computing-driven explosive growth of data is bringing tape storage back in the spotlight because it is economical, durable, and green. Organizations are using tape as a backup repository, secondary media for storage offloads or data migration, archiving solution to migrate cold data from high-cost primary storage without compromising data security and compliance. In addition, the trend of cloud repatriation is driving the need for businesses to bring storage back on-premise, further highlighting the value of tape as a cost-effective solution for data management. However, with all of its notable advantages, integration problems persist.
Ethernet connectivity for tape libraries and drives, with solutions such as ATTO XstreamCORE represents a paradigm shift in the way tape backup and archiving can be optimized for integration into today’s IT infrastructures, leveraging the pervasiveness and simplicity of Ethernet networks while avoiding the limitations of traditional SAS and FC (Fibre Channel) connectivity.
Here’s how ATTO XstreamCORE is revolutionizing modern tape connectivity:
- Removes Single-Point Server Dependence – Unlike direct-attached SAS configurations that tie tape library access to a single server, XstreamCORE offers shared access across an Ethernet network. This enables backup operations to continue even when a server is down for maintenance or suffers failure, enhancing availability as well minimizing the risk of failure or downtime.
- Cost-Effective Scalability – Fibre Channel solutions, although scalable with a SAN, are generally expensive as they involve specialized hardware like FC HBAs, FC switches, and dedicated expertise. Products such as ATTO 8100T obviates this by using standard Ethernet for a more affordable, scalable solution that is easy to install and operate. It supports connectivity of up to four SAS tape drives (and one media changer in a tape library), allowing for cost-effective scaling of backup capacity without FC costs.
- Simplified Management – The 8100T integrates SAS tape drives into an iSCSI environment which can be managed using common network tools and interfaces. Unlike Fibre Channel, which requires specialized SAN management skills, or direct-attached SAS configurations that are not well-suited for virtualization and HCI environments, XstreamCORE significantly reduces operational complexity and administrative load.
- Optimized for Better Usage – Bridging SAS tape over Ethernet through iSCSI provides efficient utilization of both tape devices and connected systems on the network. Without the need for dedicated tape storage networks, organizations experience reduced management overhead, resulting in increased productivity.
- High Availability – Distribution of backup load across multiple servers within the network enhances reliability and efficiency with better utilization of server resources. In case of a failure for a single server, others can continue (or) take over the backup activities, increasing the overall reliability of the data protection strategy.
- Ease of Deployment – ATTO XstreamCORE bridges allow organizations to deploy tape storage into their Ethernet network in under 15 minutes, providing a quick path to improved backup and recovery operations. Moreover, the bridging platform was designed to operate with any tape library and backup ISV in the market, making it extremely flexible and vendor agnostic solution in today’s ultra-complex IT ecosystems.
Many organizations struggle to integrate modern IT infrastructure with legacy storage and backup systems, adding to inefficiency, complexity, and cost. High-performance, reliable, and secure connectivity solutions are key to unlocking the power of tape in today’s fluid data landscape.
Industry leaders such as IBM, have tested and certified ATTO XstreamCORE bridges to provide the much needed flexibility and standardization in Enterprise IT and Data Centers.
ATTO XstreamCORE 8100T changes the face of tape storage with unparalleled flexibility outside of traditional server-based architectures. It connects SAS tape systems and Ethernet, transcending the limitations of direct-attached storage and enabling greater centralization, sharing, and optimization of tape storage assets.
By overcoming the challenges associated with Fibre Channel and direct attached SAS-based tape installations, ATTO XstreamCORE leverages Ethernet to provide a cost-effective, flexible, and reliable solution for today’s tape storage and data protection. Get in touch with us today!