- Disk-to-disk-to-tape (D2D2T) is an approach to computer storage backup and archiving in which data is initially copied to backup storage on a disk storage system and then periodically copied again to a tape storage system (or possibly to an optical storage system). Traditionally, many businesses have done backup directly to relatively inexpensive tape systems. However, for many computer applications, it's important to have data immediately ready to be restored from a secondary disk if and when the data on the primary disk becomes inaccessible (for example, if the server fails). The time to restore data from tape would be considered unacceptable. On the other hand, tape is a more economical alternative for long-term storage (archiving). Because it's also more portable, tape is often used for off-site backup and restoration in case of a disaster.
Disk-to-disk-to-tape is often used as part of a storage virtualization system. In such a system, data that is more likely to require restoration from a backup device may be kept on an on-site or off-site disk storage system; data, such as e-mail, that has less value over time, may be migrated on a set schedule to tape. The storage administrator can express a company's needs in terms of storage policies rather than in terms of the physical devices to be used.
| LAST UPDATED: |
20 Jul 2004
|
 |
Read more about disk-to-disk-to-tape:
|


 |
Do you have something to add to this definition? Let us know.
Send your comments to techterms@whatis.com
|

');
// -->

|