BAR using Distributed Tape Services (DTS) for Linux on the mainframe supports file-level, physical region and file system image backup. Its DTS component is a client/server solution that allows multiple heterogeneous machine clients to mount and access Linux mainframe tape volumes over a network connection. The tape management component provides media access protection, disposition processing and full support of standard tape labels including expiration date handling. Supported are the 3480, 3490, 3490E and 3590E tape drives.