Introduction - HP 12000 Design Manual

1 Introduction

Welcome to virtual tape libraries. This guide describes the HP Virtual Library System and its concepts
including automigration, deduplication, and replication, to help you define and implement your
virtual tape library system. It includes best practices for working with specific backup applications.
Although every user environment and every user's goals are different, there are basic considerations
that can help you use the VLS effectively in your environment. The VLS is a powerful and flexible
family of devices. Because it can be productively used in so many ways, there is no "best"
configuration. But by asking yourself the questions and following the parameters outlined in this
guide, you can define and implement a system that is best for your particular environment and
applications.
Before proceeding, make sure you are familiar with the items below.
Tape backup technologies, tape libraries, and backup software.
SAN environments.
Fibre Channel technology.
See the "Glossary"
NOTE: This guide replaces the HP StorageWorks Virtual Library System Solutions Guide, the HP
StorageWorks Deduplication and replication solutions guide, and the HP StorageWorks
Deduplication solutions guide.
8 Introduction
for the definition of acronyms and specific terms.