Affordable Tape Automation--The Key to Removing Business Risk through Reliable Disaster Recovery

Overview

Numerous surveys reveal that second to mis-configuration of the backup software, the leading cause of backup failure is human error. Eliminating the daily insertion and removal of backup tapes by implementing robotic tape automation systems is the key to eliminating the risk of human error from the data backup process.

Although standard in large-scale IT operations and data centers, tape automation systems are uncommon in small to medium-sized businesses. A 2004 Exabyte survey reveals that 70% of small to medium-sized businesses recognize the need for a tape automation system but forgo implementation because it is cost prohibitive. This paper explores new technologies as a solution for deploying affordable tape automation.