Which technology is typically used for large data backups of servers?

The technology most commonly used for large data backups of servers is DLT (Digital Linear Tape) tape. This is due to its high capacity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for storing significant amounts of data over extended periods. DLT tapes can hold several terabytes of data in a single cartridge, making them particularly suitable for enterprise-level data protection and archiving.

DLT tape systems have been trusted in the industry for decades, providing efficiency in data transfer rates and a long shelf life for data retention. Additionally, using tape for backups minimizes impact on network bandwidth, which is especially crucial for large data sets and minimizes risk during backup operations.

In contrast, other options like DVD R/W have limited storage capacity (generally around 4.7 GB for single-layer DVDs), making them impractical for large server backups. External SSDs, while fast and portable, can also be costly for storing large volumes of data and may not be as cost-efficient as tapes for extensive backup needs. Cloud storage solutions offer scalability and accessibility but can introduce latency issues, ongoing costs based on data size, and potential security concerns, particularly for sensitive data. Hence, DLT tape remains a preferred choice for comprehensive server backup solutions.