The Type of Information and Data You Can Back Up

The database normally contains a wide range of data types. When setting up a backup strategy, database administrators have to make a decision of the information to be copied and the kind of free backup software to use. Some of the common types you can use include Configuration files, Control file, Whole database, Offline database, online database backup, Datafile, tablespace, configuration files and Archived redo logs. With the aid of the right free backup software, coming up with a database backup can be an easy task. When making a decision on what to go for, the important thing is prioritizing information on the level to which it changes and on its significance. Archive logs normally do not change but they are very critical in database recovery. It is therefore vital to maintain as many copies of it as possible. The tablespace kind should be done frequently so as to avoid applying redo data in the recovery process. Download RichCopy

GFI Backup Home Edition and its Sections

The user interface of the free backup software selected should be easy to use. GFI brings forth a free backup solution known as the GFI Backup Home Edition whose menu brags of four types of sections that are clearly labeled. Each of these sections offers a short description of the tools each section offers. The four sections include the restore, my tasks, sync and backup sections. The restore section of this free software enables you to restore all your data into a given restore location. The backup section on the other hand makes it possible for you to back up all sorts of data ranging from registry keys, folders, files, user settings, storage media and emails among other information. To manage and configure files and do folder synchronization among multiple devices or locations, the sync section makes all this possible. It offers yet another kind of option to go for. The 'My Tasks' section enables you to manage all the tasks that you create to specify how the backup schedule should be done. Generally, the user interface of the GFI Backup Home Edition is very friendly, straightforward and simple to use. Richcopy

For a backup to keep running 24/7, then online backups for the entire database on an ARCHIVELOG mode are inevitable. An offline database backup on the other hand should be carried out when the database is shut down and closed. If your database runs on a NOARCHIVELOG mode, then you require a complete database copy. A common type is the whole database which contains all database and control files. This can be constructed bit by bit using advanced free software. The tablespace copy is normally a database subset and can only be done if the database operates in ARCHIVELOG mode. However, it can be valid for a database running on NOARCHIVELOG mode only when the tablespace is offline-normal or read-only. Copy Files Over Network

Free backup software can also be useful in constructing a datafile backup that is only done for single datafiles. The control file backup backs up the control files of the database while the Archived Redo Log backup ensures that media recovery is successful. With an excellent free backup software, constructing secure backups for all important data is easy. Go for software that offers an easy to use interface and if possible, let it have a wizard or guide to aid novice users in using the free backup software. GFI backup is a perfect option as it has plenty of unique features to offer. With GFI backup, you can easily backup data to any kind of storage device.

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