Concepts; Disk-Based Backup And Virtual Tape Libraries; Problems Addressed By Virtual Tape Libraries; Integration Of Disk In Data Protection Processes - HP 12000 Design Manual

2 Concepts

Disk-based Backup and Virtual Tape Libraries

Problems Addressed by Virtual Tape Libraries

You can optimize your backup environment with VLS and D2D if you are:
Not meeting backup windows due to slow servers.
Not consistently streaming your tape drives.
Dealing with restore problems caused by interleaving.
Performing many restores (such as single file or small database restores).
Backing up data that has a short life.
Having issues with backup reliability.
Using snapshot and clone technology for non-critical data (which makes the storage
inappropriately expensive for the nature of the data).
Looking to deemphasize tape in your environment. Bear in mind that removable media remains
valuable in its own right and for particular purposes such as site protection and protection
from malicious attack (for example, viruses and hackers), data distribution, data copy, archive,
and regulatory compliance.
Improving media management. You can keep incremental backups on virtual tape and send
full backups straight to tape.

Integration of Disk in Data Protection Processes

Globalization, 24x7 environments, and consolidation are driving more rigorous data protection
requirements. To address these requirements, disk is frequently introduced into the backup process.
In disk solutions, data is backed up from an application server (disk) over a dedicated SAN to a
disk-based system and from there to a traditional tape library. This provides enhanced solutions
for slow servers, single-file restores, and perishable data.
One of the particular benefits of the VLS and D2D is that they make a disk array look to your
backup server like a tape library. Implementation requires no new software and no significant
redesign of your backup processes. On the VLS300 and VLS12000 Gateways, because they are
attached to an EVA, the existing Fibre Channel infrastructure and management framework is used
and there is no new management server required.
NOTE: Tape holds its value for ease of vaulting, economical long-term retention, and immutability
(with WORM). It is the last step in your data's storage cycle.

Where Virtual Tape Fits in the Big Picture

Virtual libraries are not necessarily the only piece of your backup plans, but they can be an integral
piece of a successful solution.
their relative benefits and costs.
Figure 1 (page 10) illustrates the common backup technologies and
Disk-based Backup and Virtual Tape Libraries 9