Backup Tapes: Just Where Are We Heading?

We have all heard about the impending demise of the backup tape for storing your business critical data. But, we still see the backup tape media industry forging ahead as the most cost effective and efficient way to back up data.

So, where are we at with tapes. Well, the main two types in use are the LTO Ultrium, currently at revision IV able to store 800MB native or up to 1.6TB compressed. We have its contender the DLT at revision S4 that also is able to store 800MB/1.6TB. what will be next?

Why are we still using tapes? Simply that it is the most reliable and cheapest form of storage. It also does not have the overhead of disk based storage that requires power, cooling and data centre space. Until the further development of solid state storage that will be more cost effective both in onsite or offsite storage costs then, tapes will remain dominant for many, many more years to come. That will keep the employess of tape media producers reassurred I am sure, particularly in these times of global financial uncertainty.

Let me know what you think and reply back to this post. I would be very interested in your opinion on this widely debated topic.