COME SEE LASERVAULT BOOTH #500 | NEW ORLEANS APR 27-29
If you’re running IBM i, backing up data reliably is non-negotiable. Many organizations still use physical tape libraries because “it’s what we’ve always done.” But tape can be slow, hands-on, and hard to manage – especially when you need fast recovery or want to automate workflows.
That’s where a virtual tape library (VTL) comes in. A VTL replaces your physical tape hardware with disk-based storage that looks like tape to IBM i, but behaves with the speed, reliability, and flexibility of modern storage. You still use your current backup software. Your BRMS or backup commands don’t change. But everything gets faster, smoother, and easier to manage.
One example of a VTL purpose-built for IBM i is LaserVault ViTL (pronounced vital). Here are 10 practical, real-world “did you know?” facts about ViTL that matter to IT managers and IBM i admins:
1. Installation Takes Under 30 Minutes
No forklift replacement, no complex configuration.
What this means for you: You don’t need downtime to start improving backups today.
2. Works With Your Existing Backup Software
BRMS, Robot Save, native SAVLIB/SAVSYS commands – all work as-is.
What this means: No retraining. No rewriting backup jobs. It just fits.
3. Simple to Use—No Steep Learning Curve
The interface is clean, straightforward, and built for admins to start using immediately.
What this means: Less operational overhead and fewer “tribal knowledge” dependencies.
4. Flexible Configuration to Fit Any Environment
Use internal disk, SAN, NAS, cloud, or hybrid storage—your choice. ViTL also supports NPIV for multiple IBM i host connections and includes multi-path support, allowing you to define multiple backend storage paths inside the same virtual tape library for different retention or performance needs.
What this means: ViTL adapts to your environment instead of forcing infrastructure changes, giving you more control over storage tiers, connectivity, and data workflows.
5. Backups Run Significantly Faster
Disk throughput simply outruns tape.
What this means: Shorter backup windows, freed-up overnight processing, and less risk of missed jobs.
6. Faster, More Reliable Restores
No hunting for tapes, no waiting on hardware, no misplaced media, no retrieving off-site tapes.
What this means: Restore with ease and confidence when it counts most.
7. Immediate Time Savings for Your Team
No swapping tapes. No manual shipping. No storage room inventory.
What this means: Your staff can focus on strategic work instead of routine babysitting.
8. Stronger Data Security + Encryption
Data stays onsite or encrypted offsite – your choice – with consistent chain-of-custody control.
What this means: Reduces compliance and audit risks associated with physical media handling.
9. Simple Offsite Replication / Cloud Copy Options
Move virtual tapes to another site or replicate to the cloud automatically.
What this means: Disaster recovery becomes a built-in process, not an afterthought.
10. Delivers Real, Measurable ROI
Time saved + tape hardware eliminated + reduced restore risk = quick cost justification.
What this means: You can show operational and financial impact to leadership fast.
A More Strategic Approach to IBM i Backup
Tape still works – but it works like tape. If your business is scaling, pushing tighter recovery demands, or simply looking to streamline operations, a virtual tape library is a straightforward modernization step that doesn’t require rearchitecting your IBM i environment.
LaserVault ViTL gives IBM i shops a faster, simpler, and more resilient backup process – with the flexibility to grow as your storage and DR requirements evolve.
If you’re still using tape every night, it may be worth asking:
- How much time do we spend managing backup media?
- How confident are we in our restore capabilities?
- What could we gain by making backups a one-click, automated process?
Often, the answer leads to virtual tape.
If you’re exploring ways to streamline your IBM i backup strategy, a virtual tape library is one of the most practical, low-disruption improvements you can make. LaserVault ViTL is designed specifically for IBM i environments, making the transition smooth and the benefits immediate.
If you’d like to see ViTL in action or discuss your current backup workflow, we’re happy to schedule a quick, straightforward demo—no pressure, just information.
Learn more at: https://laservault.com or reach out to me at ax@laservault.com.
Join Us Live
If you’re interested in what a tape-free backup strategy really looks like in practice, we’re hosting a quick 30-minute webinar on November 18: “Rethink IBM i Backup. No Tape. No Hassle.” We’ll walk through how IBM i shops are moving to virtual tape, what changes (and what doesn’t), and how to simplify restores and DR.
Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5659540841919094879?source=bp
About LaserVault
For over 35 years, LaserVault (Electronic Storage Corporation) has been building reliable software solutions for IBM Power Systems. Our team combines deep technical experience with responsive support to help businesses and resellers get exactly what they need—fast.
We also partner with IBM, Cohesity, Rubrik, ExaGrid and others to deliver trusted, modern solutions.
Visit laservault.com or email info@laservault.com to request a quote, schedule a demo, or ask about our reseller program.
