Abstract: A computer-implemented method for performing backups may include identifying a request to back up a client system. The computer-implemented method may also include identifying a plurality of backup servers available to the client system via a network. The computer-implemented method may further include pairing the client system with a backup server in the plurality of backup servers based on a measure of network proximity between the client system and the backup server. The computer-implemented method may additionally include performing the requested backup of the client system via the backup server as a result of the pairing. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.

Abstract: A virtual tape library management system provides multiple, simultaneous accesses to the content stored on a single virtual tape. The virtual tape library management system receives a first request to access the content of a virtual tape. Responsive to the first request, the virtual tape library management system provides access to the virtual tape. While the virtual tape is being accessed, the virtual tape library management system receives a second request to read the same virtual tape. In response, the virtual tape library management system creates a shadow virtual tape corresponding to the virtual tape, maps the shadow virtual tape to the content of the virtual tape, and provides access to the shadow virtual tape.

Abstract: A system, method, and medium for performing data duplication from a first storage device to a second storage device at a block level. A backup application processes metadata prior to replicating the data to determine the best method for performing the duplication operation. Several images may be selected for duplication, and instead of copying the images one at a time, the backup application copies data from the first storage device to the second storage device block-by-block. The catalog metadata may be updated so that the backup application may be made aware of the new copy of data. The replicated data may be accessed for future restore operations such that individual files may be retrieved from the replicated data by the backup application.