The first true tape backup was back in the 1950s. Of course, back then, tape storage backups were really the only recourse for those bulky computer processors that took up voluminous space. As technology progressed, so did the concept of the tape backup. At one time, your backup tapes were actually reels similar to those you see at the movies. Now, most of them are smaller cartridges the size of a cassette tape to a VHS tape.

In this day and age of offsite storage solutions, why are tape backups still being used? There are some pros and cons of the tape backup, so let’s take a look at both sides of the tape back up system.

Pros of the Tape Back Up
One of the advantages of a tape backup drive, especially for individual users, is that it is a reliable, low-cost way of backing up data. For companies that still use tape backup solutions, the low cost factor plays into this scenario. However, there is also another advantage. Companies can then take those backups off-site to another location to store, thus protecting their data should a disaster occur in the offices. Within a few hours, their tape back up could have them up and running.

Another reason to stick with a tape backup is redundancy. Many companies who rely on their data don’t trust just one type of backup. Therefore, the tape backup is an affordable plan. Plus, with a tape backup, it can provide a historical perspective for the company. As time goes on, some data forms and other bits of information become outdated and yet, you don’t want to get rid of it either. A tape backup library for this information can be quite valuable and serve as a history of the company.

Cons of the Tape Back Up
One of the biggest gripes about the tape backup is the manpower involved. While you can set a network or computer to backup to tape automatically, what happens when that tape becomes full? Someone has to switch it out and put in a fresh clean tape. Then there is the storage factor. You have to hire tape storage companies to come and pick up your data tapes and transport them to an alternate storage facility. This takes time and money. And what happens if you need those tape backups? You have to wait for them to be transported back to you.

Another argument against the tape backup is the failure rate. Often times, the tape backup unit can malfunction which could cause a potential loss of data. An external tape back up system is not infallible. If it gets bumped, dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures, it will fail, just like any other piece of computer hardware. The cost of maintaining a tape backup can be quite exorbitant as well. You have to buy tapes, pay for manpower to keep tabs on it and pay an offsite tape storage company as well.

The Tape Back Up Saga Lingers
As you can see, there are always two sides to every situation. For the most part, a tape backup these days is still employed in a variety of situations. Many times, it is the redundancy factor that is the reason. There have been times when the tape backup has saved the day over other means like online storage. Individuals and smaller companies still use the tape backup because it is easy to find free tape backup software and it’s easy to use. Windows tape backup software especially is user-friendly.

Basically, it is a matter of assessing your needs as well as your budget to determine whether a tape backup plan is right for you. Be sure to think of all possible scenarios before making your backup solution plan.