Database Administration

If you store data stored in a database you need to make sure it is safe. This usually means making sure you have regular backs. The frequency of the backups depends on how much information you are willing to lose. 

One vital step in the backup process that is often overlooked is testing your backup. Randomly select a backup and then restore it into a test environment. Did it work? Finding out that you are missing something during a real crisis is guaranteed to ruin your day. 

Just like going to the dentist, routine maintenance and check ups of your database is a good idea. This means things like tuning, rebuilding indexes, checking data volumes (possibly moving some data into an archival system), and applying patches and upgrades. 

How often do you need this? It totally depends on the size and complexity of your database. We can discuss your options and offer guidelines and suggestions.