Backup Encryption Keys and Library Configurations

Tech Corner: Spectra Logic BlueScale Encryption

Spectra Logic's support team has seen a few recent instances in which libraries running BlueScale firmware version 10.2.0 have lost track of the configuration in the LCM, although operations continued normally in the backup software. In these cases, the library configurations were quickly and easily restored because of the customers' diligent practice of keeping valid backup copies. If you have a library that has lost its configuration, please contact EAGLE Support before you reset the library. Spectra is investigating the cause, but has been unable to reproduce the problem. Any information you might be able to provide would help us to determine the cause.

It is very important for users to keep valid backup copies of their library configurations and encryption keys. In addition, users should make a copy of their configuration whenever prompted by the library, to account for any recent changes. Regarding encryption keys, advise customers to:

keep at least two valid copies on two different USB devices, and

verify the backups by plugging the USB device into an independent PC that is not connected to the library, and then ensuring that the key is in the USB device's list of files and is more that 0 bytes in size.

Note: Encryption key files appear in this format: moniker.bsk, where moniker is the name given to the key when it was created.

In addition, Spectra Logic support has noted an issue involving NetBackup 6.5.2 and BlueScale encryption.

A recent Product Alert (dated 07-11-08) described an issue in which Support suspected that Symantec's new Encryption Key Management feature in NetBackup 6.5.2 interferes with BlueScale Encryption's management of the library's LTO-4 drives.

We have identified the cause and are actively working with IBM on a solution, which will likely involve a drive firmware and library firmware upgrade. We do not yet have a release date, but we will send another notification when the solution is available.

Until then, Spectra recommends that you delay upgrading to NetBackup 6.5.2 if you are using BlueScale encryption.

Call EAGLE for more information on the encryption and the entire Spectra line of secondary storage. In addition to Spectra Logic products, EAGLE distributes a full line of storage and backup and recovery products including tape library backup solutions, backup and recovery software packages, and SAN and NAS storage solutions. EAGLE also provides pre-sales evaluation and design, integration and support services.

For more information on EAGLE's products and services, contact: EAGLE Software, 123 Indiana Ave., Salina, KS 67401; Phone (800) 477-5432; Fax: (785) 823-6185; email: contact@eaglesoft.com; website: http://www.storagebyeagle.com.

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