Tape backup resource

Do you ever wonder what tape drives actually work with Linux? The Linux Tape Certification Program can help.

While tape backup is not the sexiest network technology, it is still what keeps many businesses from going under when disaster strikes. For companies that need to back up critical data from Linux servers, this program can help you buy, configure and troubleshoot a tape drive.

The organization is a vendor-neutral alliance that tests and certifies tape back-up products for Linux compatibility. Testers work with tape back-up manufactures to put their products through their paces with various Linux distributions running on an array of hardware platforms. The group also works with vendors to help develop device drivers for tape products. The group offers three levels of certification:

* Basic. Certifies that the device will be able to perform rudimentary tape drive functions such as read, write and erase data, and rewind media.

* Enhanced. Requires the device to support logical storage block positioning and variable block sizes.

* Extended Functionality. Certifies robotic loader mechanisms. This level also certifies multiple drive enclosure devices and tape partitioning.

Benchmark Tape Systems, Exabyte, Hewlett-Packard and Seagate are among the companies involved in the project. The organization's Web site also features a searchable database organized by vendor, which lets users know what back-up hardware products are Linux-certified.

Phil Hochmuth is a Network World Senior Writer and a former systems integrator. You can reach him at phochmut@nww.com.

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Check out Linux tape drive products from several vendors

Check out Linux tape drive products from several vendors

Read a white paper on DLT tape drives and Linux