Unix Backup and Recovery

The Muck Stops Here: Databases in Plain English

This chapter explains everything you need to know in order to learn more about database backup and recovery. You then will be prepared to read and understand the vendor-specific database chapters in this book, as well as any of the appropriate sections of your favorite DBA book or manual. This chapter assumes no prior knowledge, beginning with some of the very basic elements such as tables and rows, so that even the most junior person can understand everything. However, that does not mean that a seasoned SA or DBA should not read this chapter. It took several experienced DBAs of a number of different types of databases to come up with the information you see here, so almost any DBA should be able to learn something from this chapter.

This chapter includes an extremely useful table that lists all of the elements of database storage for each of three big databases:^[54] Oracle, Informix, and Sybase. If you’re not a DBA, the information here will allow you to discuss backup matters intelligently with your DBA. If you are a DBA for one product, this will help you to discuss backup and storage strategies with DBAs for other products—without confusing one another! The desired result for your organization is that you can all agree on why and how to protect your database data. What a beautiful world that will be!

^[54] DB2 and Ingres are not included in this edition. The reason for this is lack of research material. If I can find some good books ...