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Free Image Format ConversionData backup is the primary method for most users to preserve their valuable and critical data. In this article, we'll delve into two types of data backups: hot backup and cold backup. We'll provide all the details. Read on.
## Defining Hot Backup and Cold Backup
Hot backup
A hot backup, also known as an online or dynamic backup, is one that runs almost continuously, 24/7, as long as the system is up. Because new data is being generated all the time, users have constant access to the database. Only when the user approves does the new version of the backup supersede the old one.
A hot backup requires significant amounts of storage. A hot backup requires that the database be in ARCHIVELOG mode, which enhances the recoverability of an Oracle database. ARCHIVELOG mode must be set up in the database before you can perform a hot backup.
Cold backup
In contrast to a hot backup, a cold backup refers to an offline and static backup, which is a safe way to back up a database. This process occurs only when the database is offline and all updates have ceased. Otherwise, while the backup is in progress, the database would be offline and inaccessible to users.
Cold backups consume fewer resources than hot ones. You only need to back up once, as long as no new data has been added to the database. In addition, a cold backup requires a secondary storage location. You can use an external hard drive or USB drive connected to your computer server as the secondary storage for your cold backup.
Hot vs. Cold Backup: Pros and Cons
Now that you're familiar with the definitions of hot and cold backups, their pros and cons are displayed below. Read on to determine which one suits you.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Hot Backup
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
Since a hot backup is performed online, users can access the database throughout the entire backup process. |
Extra caution must be exercised during deployment because maintaining a hot backup incurs higher costs. |
|
Users can store and restore all database entities via a hot backup. |
If the hot backup fails, there is no access to backup data for point-in-time recovery. |
|
Backup at the database file level is very fast. |
With no fault tolerance, any minor error can lead to severe failure in a hot backup. |
|
Quick recovery is achievable even with the database still running. |
|
Advantages and Disadvantages of Cold Backup
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|
Since cold backups are performed offline or in shutdown mode, users cannot access the database during the backup process, thus enhancing data security. |
If there isn't sufficient storage space, users have to copy data and files to an external storage device. Additionally, the backup process is very slow. |
|
Cold backups can prevent data corruption, deletion, and mutation, as it can handle various intricate issues. |
The database is inaccessible at the start of the backup process, disrupting users' workflow as they have to wait. |
|
Backup data and files remain in their original state and consistent without any intervention during the backup process. |
With only cold backups, data recovery is based on a single point in time. |
|
The maintenance cost is relatively lower compared to hot backups. |
Conclusions
In conclusion, you should be aware that both hot backups and cold backups have their advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, there's no need to fret over which is the outright best. If you aim to minimize maintenance costs, opt for cold backups. Alternatively, if swift recovery is your priority, choose hot backups. When it comes to backing up your data or files, the choice should be made according to different circumstances. That is the right thing to do.