LTFS – Sunstar Company, Inc.

LTFS has impacted tape’s modern role in data storage. But, what is LTFS? And more importantly, why does it matter? LTFS Facts

Linear Tape File System (LTFS) refers to both the format of data recorded on magnetic tape media and the implementation of specific software that uses this data format to provide a file system interface to data stored on magnetic tape.

The Linear Tape File System format is a self-describing tape format developed by IBM to address tape archive requirements. The LTFS Format specification, which was adopted by the LTO Technology Provider Companies, defines the organization of data and metadata on tape – files stored in hierarchical directory structure.

Most important: Data tapes written in the LTFS Format can be used independently of any external database or storage system allowing direct access to file content data and file metadata. This format makes it possible to implement software that presents a standard file system view of the data stored in the tape media. This file system view makes accessing files stored on the LTFS formatted media similar to accessing files stored on other forms of storage media such as disk or removable flash drives.

The Linear Tape File System format is an open description of the layout of data-structures stored on a sequential-access media. These data-structures hold the file content data and associated file metadata.

Data media, such as LTO data tape, written using this format can be exchanged between systems that understand the Linear Tape File System format. Software systems that understand the format can provide users with a file system view of the media. Software systems may alternatively understand the format only to the degree that allows the system to read data from the media, or produce a tape that can be accepted by other systems that implement the Linear Tape File System format.

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To learn more about LTFS, Contact sales at Sunstarco.com or call 310.330.2900

For years, tape has played by its own rules. Traditional tape storage integrations meant having dedicated resources solely for the purpose of managing and migrating data. Tape spoke its own language, and required a translator for most business applications.

That was then. With the creation of open LTFS standards, tape has once again claimed its rightful place in the storage hierarchy. LTFS enables organizations to store files within a directory structure, making files stored on tape as accessible as files on traditional disk or flash drives. Additionally, LTFS technology communicates with other storage mediums and tiers, creating an environment for tape to truly be utilized in an efficient manner.

Open LTFS also means that there is no proprietary software required to store or access your data. Archiving your data on tape is now as simple as dragging and dropping the file onto the drive. Utilizing a file-based storage system also ensures that your data will no longer require conversion to obscure formats, and that your files remain untouched, non-manipulated, and at the ready.

By adopting LTFS standards, Dternity simplifies the archiving experience while providing a future for your data.