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When you hear people talking about databases, it may seem confusing at first. Here is some background information to give you a head start researching what is best for your situation. A database is a collection of data arranged together to make it easier and quicker to find specific information. They are used in many applications and are the preferred method of storage for multi-user applications. They are also convenient for single users. Having information stored on a separate database can also help you if need to recover deleted files.
A relational database is one of the most popular databases in use. It utilizes tables that contain columns or multiple columns to store information. Unlike the original flat database, a relational database makes it easier to recover data. Another type is the hierarchal database in which information is stored using an upward link in each stored record. A hierarchical database organizes information in a tree like structure. The more you know about the individual database types, the easier it is to sort through which type will work best for you.
There are several methods you can choose from for backup and recovery of databases. Some deal with full backup and some deal with selective backup. Make a checklist of files on your computer. This will help you decide what to backup and what isn't really necessary or important, in case of lost data. Full backups are exactly as they sound; a full copy of the database is stored on the backup media. Full backups can be done without taking the database offline. Full backups can take longer to complete than some of the others. Next we have what is called the differential backup. The differential backup only stores a copy of the data that has changed since the last full backup was completed. It is very important to remember that if you do have a database failure, since a differential backup would not be helpful with recovering lost data. You would need both the full and differential backups to restore your database properly. If you regularly make backup copies of your files and store them in a separate, safe place, then you can get most if not all of your information back if something happens to your originals. Transaction logs track all modifications that are done within your database, even unfinished transactions. Binary logs contain all events in the database that did or could contain modified data. Binary logs are used to support server replication and can be used as backup.
If you take a little time to research what is available in the way of databases, then you should easily find a system that works for you. You may choose to use a rather simple method, such as backing up data files unto a CD or DVD. However there are other systems that will allow you to easily recover data. One of those systems is an online, data recovery service for storage and backup of your data.
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