Tape Volume Key

The tape volume key is used to encrypt and authenticate the data on the tapes.

In unique key mode, the tape volume keys are unique for each physical tape and they can be stored in the Cisco KMC or stored on the tape. The Cisco KMC database does not need to store a tape volume key if the key is stored on the tape itself. The option to store the key on the tape may dramatically reduce the number of keys stored on the Cisco KMC.

In shared key mode, there is one tape volume key which is used to encrypt all volumes in a volume group.