LTO Tape Recovery: LTFS Index and Sequential Replay
LTO tapes fail in two ways: the drive cannot load them, or the index is gone while the data is still in sequence on the tape.
LTFS limits
LTFS keeps an index partition describing files. Lose the index and the files are still there, in write order, recoverable by sequential replay and block-pattern matching.
Physical care
Tapes are fragile: stretched or creased media, sticky shed, and mis-tensioned packs all end recovery. Do not fast-forward/rewind repeatedly, and do not open the cartridge.
FAQ
Can I recover from a broken tape library?
Often yes — the media is usually fine; move it to a working drive.
Is compression an issue?
Hardware compression is transparent; encrypted tapes need the key.