Quantum Encryption Key Manager (Q-EKM) is a centralized key manager application that manages the encryption keys used as part of the IBM LTO-4 drive-based data encryption process. Library support for the Q-EKM application is an optional, licensed feature that must be enabled from the library in order to begin encrypting data using the IBM LTO-4 tape drive encryption capabilities.
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NOTE: Q-EKM supports encryption on LTO-4 data cartridges using IBM LTO-4 Fibre Channel and SAS tape drives only. Q-EKM does not support encryption on other tape drive types or manufacturer brands, even if they are assigned to a partition selected for encryption. |
Tape cartridge encryption occurs natively on each IBM LTO-4 tape drive. The encryption keystore is managed outside the library by the Q-EKM server. For more information about the Q-EKM server and Q-EKM best practices, please refer to the Quantum Encryption Key Manager User's Guide.
Library managed encryption must be enabled as a library feature using a license key. For more information about enabling license keys, see Applying a License Key.
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