Backup and recovery is a critical aspect of any organization’s data management strategy. Without proper backup and the ability to restore data, businesses are at great risk of losing valuable information. In the ever-evolving world of technology, where Windows, Exchange, and SQL Server have become ubiquitous, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of backup and recovery processes.
One book that delves into this subject matter is “Backup & Recovery” by W. Curtis Preston. This book not only teaches you how to create safe backups but also takes you to the next level, where large organizations can save significant amounts of money by making their backup and restore processes faster and more reliable.
The book covers a wide range of topics, including backing up and recovering everything from basic workstations to complex databases like DB2, Oracle, Sybase, and SQL Server. It also explores various open-source tools that are either included with the operating system or application, many of which are available for free or at a minimal cost.
One of the key highlights of the book is its focus on concepts rather than specific product names. By doing so, the author provides a timeless approach to understanding backup and recovery, ensuring that the knowledge gained from the book remains relevant even as technology evolves.
The book caters to both Database Administrators (DBAs) and System Administrators (SAs), explaining backup utilities in plain language for DBAs and providing an introduction to database architecture for SAs who may have limited experience with databases.
Furthermore, the book addresses the crucial topic of Bare-Metal Recovery, which involves recovering an operating system disk when it is lost. The author highlights the best practices for Bare-Metal Recovery, offering valuable insights for organizations facing such scenarios.
As a SQL Server Principal Database Administrator, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of database backup. Surprisingly, many large organizations tend to overlook the backup of the master database, which holds critical configuration information for the entire system. I was pleased to see the author emphasize the significance of backing up the master database in just three lines, demonstrating a deep understanding of SQL Server.
In conclusion, “Backup & Recovery” is a comprehensive guide that takes readers to the highest level of backup and recovery, providing conceptually strong working examples. Whether you are a developer or a system administrator, this book equips you with the knowledge and tools necessary to ensure the safety and integrity of your organization’s data.
Rating: 4 and 1/2 stars