In this Oracle 11g DataGuard guide, we explore the fundamental concepts and administration best practices for managing DataGuard environments. DataGuard is a robust disaster recovery and data availability solution for Oracle databases. It enables high availability by synchronizing a primary database with one or more standby databases. Key DataGuard configurations include physical standby, logical standby, and snapshot standby, each serving distinct use cases for data redundancy and backup.

Key Components of Oracle 11g DataGuard

  • Primary Database: The main operational database actively servicing data requests.
  • Standby Database: A backup database maintained as a replica, either in physical or logical standby mode.
  • DataGuard Broker: A management framework that simplifies configuration and monitoring.

DataGuard Modes

DataGuard offers three protection modes to balance performance and data protection:

1. Maximum Protection: Ensures zero data loss by requiring a standby database write for every transaction.

2. Maximum Availability: Balances availability with potential minimal data loss if the standby is temporarily unavailable.

3. Maximum Performance: Prioritizes performance and reduces overhead on the primary database.

Oracle DataGuard provides advanced data management techniques like failover, switchover, and role transitions to enable uninterrupted data access and reliable disaster recovery.