Re: What is the best backup method, using RMAN, for backing up the physical and standby database?

On Jan 30, 9:24 pm, DG problem <skatef..._at_gmail.com> wrote:
> 9.2.0.8 on HP-UX.
>
> Primary DB on HOST1 (150Gb in size) and physical standby DB on HOST2.
> Both hosts have their own tape library backup unit.
>
> A low bandwidth link connects both hosts. Both hosts are in different
> states.
>
> It is important to keep backups of both databases on their respective
> tape library.
>
> Backups should go to disk first and then be backed up to tape.
>
> What would be the best backup method?

Hi,

Out of curiosity, why would you back it up in both places? We have several physical standby databases and backup just the standby, as it is a block for block copy of the primary.

Our storage is robust (EMC DMX), so we made the decision to just failover to the primary if we have a media failure (which are *very* rare for us, given redundant storage, controllers, switches, etc.), and rebuild the primary once the media failure has been repaired. That eliminated the need for duplicate backup media, and offloaded the RMAN backup CPU cycles to the standby node.

I'm assuming the low bandwidth connection makes direct transfer a pain in the rear? How did you build the standby originally (timing, logistic issues, etc.)? If that was acceptable, rebuilding the primary from a backup of the new primary after failover should be feasible, and then switch back over to it at an agreed upon time.

If you ever have complete catastrophe, the backups of the standby can be used to rebuild it in either physical location (block for block copy of either database).

Regards,

Steve Received on Thu Jan 31 2008 - 05:59:28 CST