Oracle database backup methods

It is important that you back up the database on a regular basis. Be sure to use more than one backup method and to test your recovery process.

You can use the following methods to back up the Oracle database:

• Export-Import: An export extracts logical definitions and data from the database and writes the information to a file. Export-import does not support point-in-time recoveries. Do not use Export-Import as your only backup and recovery strategy.

  See the information on the Export-Import subdirectory in Oracle/SA Installation Scripts, SQL Scripts, and configuration files.

• Cold or Off-Line Backups: This procedure shuts the database down and backs up all data, index, log, and control files. Cold or off-line backups do not support point-in-time recoveries.
• Hot or Online Backups: During these backups, the database must be available and in ARCHIVELOG mode. The tablespaces are set to backup mode. This procedure backs up tablespace files, control files, and archived redo log files. Hot or online backups support point-in-time recoveries.
• RMAN Backups: While the database is either off-line or on-line, use the rman utility to back up the database.

Regardless of your backup strategy, remember to back up all required Oracle software libraries, parameter files, password files, and so forth. If your database is in ARCHIVELOG mode, you also need to back up the archived log files.

For more information on backing up Oracle databases, refer to the documentation on the Oracle website.