HPE Storage MSL6480 Tape Library
In an era of relentless data growth, securing information for the long term while defending against cyber threats is a critical challenge. The HPE Storage MSL6480 Tape Library is an enterprise-class solution designed to meet these demands, offering exceptional density, scalability, and security for backup, archive, and disaster recovery.
The MSL6480 provides a reliable and cost-effective foundation for your data retention strategy. It scales seamlessly from a 6U base module up to a full 42U rack, accommodating massive data volumes without requiring a complete infrastructure overhaul. By combining high-performance LTO tape technology with advanced security features, it delivers a robust defense for your most valuable data assets.
The HPE Storage MSL6480 Tape Library is built on a modular, scale-out architecture that allows your data protection infrastructure to grow in lockstep with your business. Starting with an 80-cartridge base module, you can expand vertically up to 560 slots in a single 19-inch rack, achieving a total compressed capacity of up to 25.2 PB with LTO-9 technology. This pay-as-you-grow approach eliminates the need for disruptive forklift upgrades and protects your initial investment.
Security is at the core of the MSL6480's design. It features innovative technologies like the MSL vault partition, which creates an in-library, air-gapped storage tier invisible to applications and ransomware. Access is secured with multi-factor authentication (MFA), and data can be protected with an optional self-contained encryption kit. These capabilities, combined with support for immutable WORM media, provide a formidable defense against unauthorized access and data tampering.
Selecting the right long-term storage solution requires a detailed analysis of capacity, performance, security, and future growth requirements. NEXUS ITX helps organizations navigate these complexities by providing a clear, requirements-led approach to evaluating the HPE Storage MSL6480 Tape Library.
We facilitate a thorough assessment of how the MSL6480's features align with your specific data protection and compliance objectives, ensuring the final configuration meets your technical and operational needs without over-provisioning.
Q: How does the HPE MSL6480 Tape Library scale?
A: The MSL6480 uses a modular, scale-out architecture. It starts with a 6U Scalable Base Module containing 80 cartridge slots. You can add up to six 6U Scalable Expansion Modules to grow vertically within a single 19-inch rack to a maximum of 42U, 560 cartridge slots, and 42 LTO half-height drives.
Q: What is the MSL vault partition and how does it improve security?
A: The MSL vault partition is a feature that creates a secure, isolated storage area within the library. It makes a designated set of tape cartridges invisible to the host application and network, effectively creating an in-library air gap. This protects data from online threats like ransomware that could otherwise compromise accessible backup sets.
Q: What LTO tape drive generations are supported?
A: The HPE MSL6480 Tape Library supports LTO-9, LTO-8, and LTO-7 drives, providing flexibility to use existing media or adopt the latest generation for maximum capacity and performance.
Q: What is the maximum storage capacity and performance of the MSL6480?
A: When fully configured with LTO-9 drives and media, the MSL6480 can store up to 25.2 PB of data (assuming a 2.5:1 compression ratio). It can achieve a maximum data transfer rate of up to 60.4 TB per hour with 42 half-height LTO-9 drives.
Q: How is the MSL6480 managed?
A: The library is managed through HPE StoreEver Command View TL, a browser-based interface that allows for remote configuration, management, and monitoring from a single pane of glass. It also supports features like library partitioning, which enables the creation of multiple independent virtual libraries from a single physical unit.
Q: Does the MSL6480 support data encryption?
A: Yes, it supports data encryption through an optional MSL encryption kit. This is a self-contained solution that encrypts data without requiring an external encryption server or appliance, simplifying the security architecture.
Q: How can Nexus ITX help me determine if the MSL6480 is the right fit?
A: Nexus ITX can help you evaluate your specific backup, archive, and compliance requirements. We assist in comparing the MSL6480's scalability, performance, and security features against your operational needs to determine if its architecture is the correct choice for your long-term data retention strategy.
Contact us to evaluate configurations and align the MSL6480's capabilities with your long-term data protection strategy.
