Ken Uchikura Newsletter Vol. 372 Thumbnail
Considering the Introduction of LTO Offline Backups
At PSPINC, we’re currently evaluating the implementation of offline backups using LTO (Linear Tape-Open) as an additional safeguard against ransomware and unauthorized access, causing data loss.
In recent years, ransomware has become far more sophisticated. It no longer stops at encrypting server data alone. Instead, they often search for network-connected backups and cloud storage first, destroying or encrypting them before targeting the primary systems. This means the traditional mindset of feeling safe because we have a backup is no longer enough if the network can’t reach those backups.
Today, businesses commonly use several backup methods. Cloud backups are convenient and allow relatively fast recovery in the event of a failure. However, because they are always connected to the network, there’s the risk that a ransomware attack may synchronize encrypted or compromised data. NAS devices and external disks face similar risks as long as they remain connected to the network.
Another approach is immutable storage, which prevents data from being modified or deleted for a defined period of time. This provides strong protection against ransomware. However, since the network still manages the data, it can’t completely eliminate risk.
This is where LTO stands apart. Using the latest LTO-9 technology, a single tape can store up to 18 TB of data, and once you physically remove the tape from the drive, it completely disconnects from the network. This offline separation means no matter how clever a cyberattack is, the data on the tape remains physically inaccessible to hackers. This is why banks, government agencies, and major cloud providers continue to rely on LTO as their ultimate line of defense.
Through our Dreamersi hosting, VPS, and email services, PSPINC manages critical business data for many clients. Rather than hoping that incidents will never occur, we believe it is our responsibility to ensure we can recover that data with certainty, even in the worst-case scenario. For this reason, we are considering adding LTO-based offline backups as a final layer of protection.
We would greatly appreciate your feedback on this initiative. What kind of backup system would give you peace of mind? Please feel free to share your thoughts, including expectations around cost and operational considerations. PSPINC remains committed to continuously pursuing the best possible solutions to protect your valuable data.
Kenichi Uchikura
President / CEO
Pacific Software Publishing, Inc.
ken.uchikura＠pspinc.com
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ABOUT PSPINC
PSPINC (Pacific Software Publishing, Inc.) is a technology company based in Bellevue, Washington, USA. Founded in 1987, PSPINC provides web hosting, email hosting, and other internet-related services to businesses and individuals worldwide.
In addition to its hosting services, PSPINC also offers website design and development, domain registration, and online marketing services. The company has data centers located in the United States and Japan, and it offers multilingual support to its customers.
PSPINC has a strong focus on customer service, and it has received numerous awards and accolades for its quality of service over the years. The company is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest technology and industry trends in order to provide the best possible solutions for its customers.
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