A method for enabling different modes on a multi-modal data storage system such as a tape-based data storage system includes enabling a data storage system to operate in at least one of two modes, a first of the modes being different than a second of the modes. In one embodiment, the data storage system has all physical components required to operate in the first and second modes. An ability to operate in at least one of the modes is not allowed prior to enabling the data storage system to operate in the at least one of the modes.