---
title: "LTO (Linear Tape-Open)"
url: https://postproduction.studio/en/glossary/lto
language: en
description: "Magnetic tape backup format. Current LTO-9: 18 TB native per cartridge, ~400 MB/s read/write. Industry standard for long-term archive (30+ years shelf l..."
updated: 2026-10-25
---

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# LTO (Linear Tape-Open)

Magnetic tape backup format. Current LTO-9: 18 TB native per cartridge, ~400 MB/s read/write. Industry standard for long-term archive (30+ years shelf life).

Workflow, DeliveryPost-Production Supervisor, DITArchiving, Delivery

## Related terms

[Cold storage](https://postproduction.studio/en/glossary/cold-storage)[Nearline storage](https://postproduction.studio/en/glossary/nearline-storage)[Checksum](https://postproduction.studio/en/glossary/checksum)

## Articles covering this term

* [Archiving workflow: long-term preservation

  Master the archiving workflow in post-production. Learn about LTO, LTFS, storage strategies, checksums, deep archiving, and metadata cataloging.](https://postproduction.studio/en/workflows/archiving-workflow)
* [Asset management: MAM, DAM, Frame.io, ftrack

  Comprehensive guide to media asset management tools. Explore MAM, DAM, cloud solutions like Frame.io, tracking via ftrack, and global post-production metadata workflows.](https://postproduction.studio/en/tools/asset-management-tools)
* [Image finishing: the final step before delivery

  Complete guide to image finishing operations: integrating VFX, applying grading, titling, technical QC, and creating master files for delivery.](https://postproduction.studio/en/image/finishing-image)
* [The grading suite: equipment and environment

  Detailed guide to grading suite equipment and environment. Explore calibration, control panels, workstations, monitoring chain, storage, and lighting.](https://postproduction.studio/en/image/grading-suite)
* [Mezzanine formats and post-production masters

  Detailed guide to mezzanine formats in post-production. Discover the roles of digital masters, transcode chains, and balancing quality vs. file size.](https://postproduction.studio/en/formats/mezzanine-formats)