NetApp StorageGrid Adds Object Tape Backend: Feb 6, 2024

Introducing Object Tape Backend for Long-Term Data Retention

NetApp, a leading provider of data management solutions, has recently announced the addition of an Object Tape Backend to its StorageGRID system. This new feature enhances the platform’s capabilities, enabling organizations to cost-effectively store and manage large volumes of data for long-term retention.

NetApp StorageGRID is a scalable, unified, and flexible platform designed to handle both file and object storage. It provides a single namespace for both types of data, simplifying data management and reducing operational complexity. With the new Object Tape Backend, StorageGRID can now integrate with tape libraries, offering an economical solution for long-term data preservation.

Object Tape Backend: A Cost-Effective Solution for Long-Term Data Retention

Object Tape Backend is an extension of NetApp’s StorageGRID that enables seamless integration with tape libraries. It allows users to store and retrieve object data directly from tape, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional disk-based storage.

Tape storage offers several advantages for long-term data retention:

  1. Cost-effective: Tape storage is significantly less expensive than disk-based storage, making it an ideal solution for storing large volumes of data that don’t require frequent access.
  2. Durability: Tapes have a longer lifespan than disk drives, ensuring data is preserved for extended periods.
  3. Scalability: Tape libraries can store vast amounts of data, making them suitable for large-scale data preservation projects.

Integrating Object Tape Backend with StorageGRID

To integrate Object Tape Backend with StorageGRID, users need to install the necessary software components and configure the system to recognize the tape library. Once configured, StorageGRID can automatically tier data to tape based on policies, freeing up disk space and reducing costs.

Data can be accessed from tape using standard object storage APIs, such as Amazon S3 or OpenStack Swift. This allows users to leverage their existing applications and tools without requiring any modifications.

Benefits of NetApp StorageGRID with Object Tape Backend

The addition of Object Tape Backend to NetApp StorageGRID offers several benefits for organizations:

  1. Cost savings: By using tape storage for long-term data retention, organizations can significantly reduce their storage costs.
  2. Scalability: StorageGRID’s ability to scale to petabytes of data makes it an ideal solution for managing large volumes of data for long-term retention.
  3. Flexibility: The platform’s support for both file and object storage, as well as its ability to integrate with tape libraries, offers organizations the flexibility to choose the best storage solution for their needs.
  4. Durability: Tape storage’s long lifespan ensures data is preserved for extended periods, providing peace of mind for organizations that need to comply with regulatory requirements or maintain historical data.

Conclusion

NetApp’s StorageGRID with Object Tape Backend is an excellent solution for organizations looking to cost-effectively store and manage large volumes of data for long-term retention. By integrating tape libraries into the platform, NetApp offers a scalable, flexible, and durable solution that simplifies data management and reduces operational complexity. With its support for standard object storage APIs, StorageGRID enables users to leverage their existing applications and tools, making the transition to tape storage seamless.