“True Immutable Tape Backup” for Object Storage Backup from PoINT Software & Systems

PoINT Software & Systems GmbH ‘s products PoINT Archival Gateway and PoINT Data Replicator have been designed for the backup of object data on tape storage systems. The new versions of the software solutions optimize the backup process with new features.

With the help of Archival Gateway, Data Replicator stores the data on tape. Storage is realized in native format via the S3 interface of the source system that is to be backed up. With object lock, versioning, retention management and optional WORM protection of the media, firm’s products provide numerous software functions which enable a “True Immutable Backup”. By means of individual filters the backup process can also be limited to specific data. For continuous backup Data Replicator additionally supports queuing services like Apache Kafka and AWS SQS. This avoids long scan times on the source system.

With Snapshot Restore, the new version 2.2 of Data Replicator offers more flexibility and security when restoring data: This functionality allows restoring backed up data based on a selectable date. Thus, for example, a targeted recovery can be performed after a ransomware attack. With this, Data Replicator enables a fast return to an uninfected data set:

Object storage systems are characterized by low downtime rates. The systems achieve HA through redundant components, erasure coding and replication. However, object storage systems are also exposed to risks of data loss that cannot be eliminated by HA features. Especially with the threat of cyber attacks, the additional protection of object storage through a backup comes into focus. The most important criteria for such a backup are object-based storage, direct S3 access and suitable storage media. A tape storage class, which is integrated via the S3 interface, is for backing up HDD-based object storage. Data stored on tape is securely protected vs. cybercrime attacks through air-gap. In addition, tape media are economical and sustainable compared to HDDs.

PoINT’s software solutions cover the mentioned criteria and comprehensively support companies in implementing the 3-2-1 backup strategy in the object storage sector.