While the physics of miniaturization have changed all computing devices in the data center, the security-related consequences of smaller and faster are especially problematic for storage media. Tagging and labeling drives, tapes, and other removable media remain necessary for asset management and location, but are hardly sufficient for security. Software that audits change, move, and copy at the bit level is essential to securing storage, but provides minimal help when the data stays on a particular media, but the media moves. RFID technology, in conjunction with the most modern processes for managing package logistics, should be added to the domain of storage media management. Some specialty storage vendors serving specific IT verticals (e.g., health care) are beginning to offer embedded RFID capability. However, to improve storage media tracking, users should start pushing suppliers for RFID-enhanced media across the board. As bit densities increase, it's a design trade-off that makes enormous sense to any business concerned about data moving by foot.
Action Item: RFID technology is too simple and too mature to not be added to data center efforts to physically secure storage media. While the costs of integrating RFID into media packaging may be an important consideration (likely in terms of less data per media), the long-term benefits of being able to more fully secure physical storage media are compelling. We hope storage suppliers provide this feature sooner rather than later.
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