Saving and restoring optical media

Optical media is a cost effective long-term storage solution. You can save and restore your data using optical media in multiple ways. You can perform saves using BRMS, save operations and restore commands, and the Load Run command.

The IBM® i Save and Restore commands support directly attached optical media library devices, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM stand-alone devices, and virtual optical devices. The best use of optical storage devices is for disaster recovery protection. The extraordinary long shelf life of optical media is well suited for the long-term storage of critical data. You can provide extra protection by using permanent WORM media because you cannot alter data on the media. Tape devices may provide the optimal day-to-day backup mechanism. This depends on the amount of data that you want backed up, and the amount of system time available for backup. CD-ROM and DVD-RAM media are also well suited for software distribution. The save/restore command interface can be used as a part of installation procedures for programs, data, and program fixes. CD-ROM and DVD-RAM stand-alone drive optical devices also support the Load Run (LODRUN) command.

Backup, Recovery and Media Services (BRMS) is a licensed program that helps you create a disciplined approach to manage your backups. Optical media is supported by BRMS. Refer to the BRMS topic for more details.