Quick Overview
- 1#1: Veritas NetBackup - Enterprise-grade backup and recovery software with advanced automation for managing large-scale tape libraries and robotic operations.
- 2#2: IBM Spectrum Protect - Comprehensive data protection platform optimized for hierarchical storage management including extensive tape library control and deduplication.
- 3#3: Commvault Complete - Unified backup solution providing seamless tape library integration, partitioning, and policy-based archiving for hybrid environments.
- 4#4: HPE Data Protector - Robust backup software designed for HPE StoreEver tape libraries with multi-vendor support and zero-downtime operations.
- 5#5: OpenText NetWorker - Scalable enterprise backup tool featuring dynamic tape library management, deduplication, and cloud-tiering capabilities.
- 6#6: Oracle Secure Backup - Dedicated tape backup manager for Oracle databases with automated library partitioning and media management.
- 7#7: Quantum StorNext - High-performance file system software with integrated tape library archiving for media and big data workflows.
- 8#8: Spectra Logic BlackPearl - Hybrid storage gateway that automates data flow to tape libraries for cost-effective long-term retention.
- 9#9: Arcserve UDP - Unified data protection platform supporting tape libraries for backup, replication, and disaster recovery.
- 10#10: Veeam Backup & Replication - Backup solution with tape support for offloading data to libraries in virtualized and hybrid environments.
Tools were ranked based on key factors including feature set relevance (e.g., deduplication, automation, and cloud-tiering), integration capability with existing systems, user-friendliness, and overall value, prioritizing reliability and adaptability in diverse storage landscapes.
Comparison Table
Discover a comprehensive comparison of top tape library management software, featuring tools like Veritas NetBackup, IBM Spectrum Protect, Commvault Complete, HPE Data Protector, OpenText NetWorker, and more. This table outlines critical capabilities to guide readers in selecting solutions that match their storage, automation, and compatibility requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Veritas NetBackup Enterprise-grade backup and recovery software with advanced automation for managing large-scale tape libraries and robotic operations. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | IBM Spectrum Protect Comprehensive data protection platform optimized for hierarchical storage management including extensive tape library control and deduplication. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | Commvault Complete Unified backup solution providing seamless tape library integration, partitioning, and policy-based archiving for hybrid environments. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | HPE Data Protector Robust backup software designed for HPE StoreEver tape libraries with multi-vendor support and zero-downtime operations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | OpenText NetWorker Scalable enterprise backup tool featuring dynamic tape library management, deduplication, and cloud-tiering capabilities. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | Oracle Secure Backup Dedicated tape backup manager for Oracle databases with automated library partitioning and media management. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Quantum StorNext High-performance file system software with integrated tape library archiving for media and big data workflows. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Spectra Logic BlackPearl Hybrid storage gateway that automates data flow to tape libraries for cost-effective long-term retention. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 9 | Arcserve UDP Unified data protection platform supporting tape libraries for backup, replication, and disaster recovery. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Veeam Backup & Replication Backup solution with tape support for offloading data to libraries in virtualized and hybrid environments. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
Enterprise-grade backup and recovery software with advanced automation for managing large-scale tape libraries and robotic operations.
Comprehensive data protection platform optimized for hierarchical storage management including extensive tape library control and deduplication.
Unified backup solution providing seamless tape library integration, partitioning, and policy-based archiving for hybrid environments.
Robust backup software designed for HPE StoreEver tape libraries with multi-vendor support and zero-downtime operations.
Scalable enterprise backup tool featuring dynamic tape library management, deduplication, and cloud-tiering capabilities.
Dedicated tape backup manager for Oracle databases with automated library partitioning and media management.
High-performance file system software with integrated tape library archiving for media and big data workflows.
Hybrid storage gateway that automates data flow to tape libraries for cost-effective long-term retention.
Unified data protection platform supporting tape libraries for backup, replication, and disaster recovery.
Backup solution with tape support for offloading data to libraries in virtualized and hybrid environments.
Veritas NetBackup
enterpriseEnterprise-grade backup and recovery software with advanced automation for managing large-scale tape libraries and robotic operations.
Tape Library Sharing enables multiple NetBackup media servers to concurrently access and utilize a single robotic tape library, maximizing efficiency and throughput.
Veritas NetBackup is an enterprise-grade data protection platform renowned for its robust tape library management capabilities, enabling automated backup, archiving, and recovery across physical, virtual, and cloud environments. It features advanced media management through its Tape Media Manager, supporting robotic libraries, LTFS, encryption, and partitioning for efficient long-term retention. NetBackup optimizes tape utilization with deduplication, compression, multiplexing, and intelligent tiering, ensuring high performance and reliability in large-scale deployments.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with over 100 tape library models from major vendors like IBM, Oracle, and Spectra Logic
- Advanced automation including auto-discovery, policy-driven operations, and shared library access across multiple media servers
- Superior performance optimization via deduplication, multiplexing, and synthetic backups tailored for tape
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial configuration for non-expert admins
- High licensing costs scaled by capacity and features
- Resource-intensive requiring dedicated hardware for optimal tape operations
Best For
Large enterprises and data centers managing extensive tape libraries for compliance-driven archiving and disaster recovery.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically $5,000+ annually per TB of protected data, with options for perpetual or subscription models.
IBM Spectrum Protect
enterpriseComprehensive data protection platform optimized for hierarchical storage management including extensive tape library control and deduplication.
Hierarchical Storage Management (HSM) that seamlessly automates data migration and recall between disk caches and tape libraries based on customizable policies
IBM Spectrum Protect is an enterprise-class data protection platform specializing in tape library management for backup, archiving, and recovery. It automates tape operations including mounting, labeling, inventory, and reclamation across major tape libraries like IBM TS4500 and LTO systems. The software supports policy-based data tiering from disk to tape, with features like multiplexing, deduplication, and encryption for efficient long-term storage.
Pros
- Highly scalable for petabyte-scale tape environments with multi-site support
- Advanced tape optimization including client-side deduplication and LAN-free backups
- Robust policy engine for automated data lifecycle management to tape
Cons
- Steep learning curve with heavy reliance on command-line for advanced tasks
- Complex initial setup and configuration for tape libraries
- Premium pricing that may not suit smaller organizations
Best For
Large enterprises with extensive tape infrastructure requiring reliable, high-capacity archival and recovery.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing model based on managed capacity (per TB) or endpoints; annual costs start from $5,000+ with custom quotes required.
Commvault Complete
enterpriseUnified backup solution providing seamless tape library integration, partitioning, and policy-based archiving for hybrid environments.
Unified MediaAgent architecture for automated, policy-driven tape library operations across physical and virtual tape environments
Commvault Complete is a comprehensive enterprise data protection platform that excels in managing tape libraries for backup, archiving, and recovery operations. It supports automated control of robotic tape libraries, LTO tape drives, media partitioning, encryption, and deduplication to optimize tape usage. The solution integrates tape seamlessly with disk, cloud, and virtual environments for hybrid storage strategies.
Pros
- Robust robotic library control and multi-vendor tape support
- Advanced deduplication, compression, and encryption for efficient tape management
- Scalable integration with hybrid storage tiers including cloud archiving
Cons
- Steep learning curve for tape-specific configurations
- Enterprise-level pricing can be prohibitive for smaller setups
- Overkill for organizations focused solely on tape without broader data needs
Best For
Large enterprises requiring integrated tape library management within a full-spectrum data protection strategy for compliance and long-term retention.
Pricing
Subscription-based per-TB or per-socket licensing; enterprise pricing starts at several thousand dollars annually, quote required.
HPE Data Protector
enterpriseRobust backup software designed for HPE StoreEver tape libraries with multi-vendor support and zero-downtime operations.
Zero Impact Backup technology for non-disruptive tape library operations even under heavy load
HPE Data Protector is a comprehensive enterprise backup and recovery solution with robust tape library management features, enabling automated control of robotic tape libraries, media inventory, and drive operations. It supports a wide range of LTO and enterprise tape formats from HPE StoreEver and third-party vendors, facilitating efficient backup, archiving, and restore processes. The software integrates seamlessly with HPE's hardware ecosystem for optimized performance in large-scale data protection environments.
Pros
- Scalable support for petabyte-scale tape libraries and multi-vendor hardware
- Automated media management with dynamic pooling and error recovery
- Strong integration with HPE StoreEver libraries for high-density operations
Cons
- Complex initial setup and steep learning curve for administrators
- Outdated user interface in some modules
- Premium pricing limits accessibility for smaller organizations
Best For
Large enterprises with extensive HPE tape infrastructure needing reliable, high-capacity backup automation.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing model with perpetual or subscription options; pricing starts at several thousand dollars per core/server, customized via HPE sales.
OpenText NetWorker
enterpriseScalable enterprise backup tool featuring dynamic tape library management, deduplication, and cloud-tiering capabilities.
Dynamic tape drive sharing, allowing multiple NetWorker servers to access and share tape resources without manual intervention
OpenText NetWorker is an enterprise-grade data protection platform specializing in backup, recovery, and archiving with strong support for tape libraries. It automates tape management tasks including mounting, labeling, inventorying, and barcoding across physical and virtual tape libraries from vendors like IBM, Oracle, and Spectra Logic. The software enables efficient data deduplication, replication, and long-term retention on tape while integrating with disk, cloud, and NAS environments for hybrid strategies.
Pros
- Excellent scalability for managing large-scale tape libraries with thousands of slots
- Advanced features like dynamic drive sharing and tape partitioning for optimized performance
- Robust integration with enterprise storage hardware and NDMP for NAS backups
Cons
- Complex configuration and steep learning curve requiring skilled administrators
- High licensing costs that may not suit smaller organizations
- Outdated CLI-heavy interface with a clunky GUI in some modules
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, high-volume tape-based backup infrastructures needing reliable long-term data retention.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing model, typically per-core or per-TB protected, starting at $20,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments with add-ons for advanced features.
Oracle Secure Backup
enterpriseDedicated tape backup manager for Oracle databases with automated library partitioning and media management.
Proxy copy functionality with RMAN for offloading backup processing directly to tape storage cells
Oracle Secure Backup (OSB) is Oracle's enterprise-grade tape backup and recovery solution optimized for managing tape libraries in Oracle Database environments. It handles automated tape libraries (ATLs), tape drives, media pooling, and robotic control, supporting high-volume backups with multiplexing and encryption. OSB integrates tightly with Oracle Recovery Manager (RMAN) for efficient database protection while offering capabilities for file system backups.
Pros
- Excellent integration with Oracle RMAN and Database for seamless backups
- Robust support for large-scale tape libraries and media management
- Strong security features including tape encryption and access controls
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to command-line heavy interface
- Limited flexibility for non-Oracle workloads without additional licensing
- Aging web console lacks modern UI polish compared to competitors
Best For
Oracle-centric enterprises requiring reliable, high-performance tape library management for database backups.
Pricing
Included at no extra cost with Oracle Database Enterprise Edition for database backups; separate per-tape-drive licensing for non-Oracle data (contact Oracle for quotes).
Quantum StorNext
enterpriseHigh-performance file system software with integrated tape library archiving for media and big data workflows.
Global Shared File System enabling thousands of clients to access and stream data directly from tape libraries at high speeds
Quantum StorNext is a high-performance, software-defined storage platform that combines a shared file system with advanced storage management, including deep integration for tape library archiving and tiered storage workflows. It enables policy-based data movement from high-speed disk or flash to robotic tape libraries, supporting LTFS and LTO formats for cost-effective, long-term retention. Ideal for active archive scenarios, it manages tape libraries at scale, providing robotic control, inventory management, and high-throughput recall for media, HPC, and big data environments.
Pros
- Exceptional scalability for petabyte-scale tape libraries
- High-performance parallel access to archived data
- Seamless integration with Quantum Scalar libraries and LTFS
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex configuration
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Overkill for small-scale tape management needs
Best For
Large enterprises in media production, HPC, or scientific research needing active tape archives with high-speed client access.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starting at around $50,000+ for core software, plus hardware integration and annual support fees.
Spectra Logic BlackPearl
enterpriseHybrid storage gateway that automates data flow to tape libraries for cost-effective long-term retention.
Deep Tier intelligent data placement that automatically migrates cold data to tape libraries while presenting unified object storage
Spectra Logic BlackPearl is a hybrid deep archive storage platform that integrates tape libraries with disk and cloud storage, providing automated management for large-scale tape operations. It uses object-based protocols like S3 and LTFS to make tape libraries accessible as modern storage tiers, handling mounting, data placement, recall, and monitoring seamlessly. Designed for petabyte-scale archiving, it optimizes tape utilization for cost-effective long-term retention in enterprise environments.
Pros
- Automated tape tiering and recall for hands-off library management
- Scalable to exabytes with support for multiple tape drive technologies (LTO, IBM TS), Tandberg
- S3-compatible interface hides tape complexity from applications
Cons
- Complex initial setup requiring IT expertise and hardware integration
- Enterprise pricing limits accessibility for SMBs
- Limited real-time access speeds inherent to tape technology
Best For
Large enterprises and media companies requiring automated, cost-efficient management of massive tape libraries for archival workloads.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; hardware-inclusive systems start at $50,000+, with software licenses and capacity-based scaling.
Arcserve UDP
enterpriseUnified data protection platform supporting tape libraries for backup, replication, and disaster recovery.
Deduplication-optimized tape export for reduced media usage and faster restores
Arcserve UDP is a unified data protection platform that extends backup and recovery capabilities to tape libraries, enabling efficient data archival, rotation policies, and restores from physical or virtual tape devices. It integrates tape management within its broader disk-to-cloud workflow, supporting deduplication and encryption for tape exports. While not a standalone tape solution, it provides robust integration for hybrid environments needing long-term retention on tape.
Pros
- Strong integration with tape libraries for automated backups and restores
- Supports deduplication and encryption directly to tape for efficient archival
- Comprehensive reporting and monitoring for tape inventory and health
Cons
- Tape management is secondary to disk/cloud focus, lacking some dedicated tape-only depth
- Complex setup for advanced tape configurations and multi-site libraries
- Licensing can become expensive for large-scale tape deployments
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises with hybrid backup strategies requiring tape archival alongside modern disk and cloud protection.
Pricing
Subscription-based; starts at approximately $300-$500 per workload/year, with tape add-ons; enterprise pricing upon request.
Veeam Backup & Replication
enterpriseBackup solution with tape support for offloading data to libraries in virtualized and hybrid environments.
Disk-to-tape backup chaining that automates long-term archival without manual staging
Veeam Backup & Replication is a leading data protection platform that extends its capabilities to tape library management, enabling automated backups, archiving, and restores to physical tape libraries like LTO drives. It supports tape job scheduling, media rotation, encryption, and integration with existing disk-based backups for long-term retention. While not a dedicated tape management tool, it provides reliable tape handling within a broader backup ecosystem.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Veeam's disk, cloud, and virtual backups for hybrid workflows
- Supports tape encryption, compression, and automated media management including rotation
- Reliable restores from tape with verification and direct VM recovery options
Cons
- Tape features require full Veeam infrastructure and licensing, not ideal for standalone use
- Limited advanced library controls like dynamic partitioning compared to dedicated tape software
- Complex setup and licensing can increase costs for tape-only needs
Best For
Organizations already invested in the Veeam ecosystem seeking efficient tape archiving as part of comprehensive data protection.
Pricing
Included in Veeam Standard/Enterprise subscriptions starting at ~$450/socket/year or perpetual licenses from $900/socket; Community Edition offers limited tape support for free.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools showcase diverse strengths in tape library management, with Veritas NetBackup leading as the top choice for its enterprise-grade automation and scalability in large-scale environments. IBM Spectrum Protect and Commvault Complete stand out as strong alternatives, offering optimized hierarchical storage and unified hybrid support respectively, catering to varied needs.
Explore Veritas NetBackup to unlock streamlined tape library operations and elevate your backup and recovery efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison