Systems and methods for logically organizing data for storage and recovery on a data storage medium using a multi-level format are described. Embodiments include systems and methods for protecting data stored on a data storage medium so that the data may be recovered without errors.

An information recording apparatus includes: a first memory which stores synchronization data for updating data on a recordable optical disc and/or adding data to the recordable optical disc; a second memory which stores erasure information indicating data to be erased; and a controller which controls addition, update, and erasure of data on the optical disc. The controller records the synchronization data onto the optical disc. After recording the synchronization data, the controller records, onto the optical disc, management information indicating the state of the optical disc on which the synchronization data has been recorded and the state of the optical disc resulting from erasure according to the erasure information. Subsequently, the controller closes the session. After closing the session, the controller physically erases the data to be erased which has been recorded on the optical disc.

An information recording apparatus includes: a first memory which stores synchronization data for updating data on a recordable optical disc and/or adding data to the recordable optical disc; a second memory which stores erasure information indicating data to be erased; and a controller which controls addition, update, and erasure of data on the optical disc. The controller records the synchronization data onto the optical disc. After recording the synchronization data, the controller records, onto the optical disc, management information indicating the state of the optical disc on which the synchronization data has been recorded and the state of the optical disc resulting from erasure according to the erasure information. Subsequently, the controller closes the session. After closing the session, the controller physically erases the data to be erased which has been recorded on the optical disc.