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Database Administration

Database administration is a complex, often thankless chore. The collection of links on this page will help you keep your DBMS humming along at peak performance
Choosing a Database for Your Organization
Database management systems (or DBMSs) can be divided into two categories -- desktop databases and server databases. Generally speaking, desktop databases are oriented toward single-user applications and reside on standard personal computers (hence the term desktop). Server databases contain mechanisms to ensure the reliability and consistency of data and are geared toward multi-user applications.
Database Software Options
You've finally buckled down and decided that it's time to purchase a database solution for your home or business. What type of database do you need? It's actually a simple matter of deciding what features you need and choosing a product that meets your requirements and doesn't cause too much pain in your pocketbook.
Database Management System
A database management system (DBMS) is the software that allows a computer to perform database functions of storing, retrieving, adding, deleting and modifying data.
Database Concurrency
Looking for a definition of database concurrency? Find it here!
Data Definition Language
Looking for a definition of data definition language (DDL)? Find it here in the About Databases glossary.
Data Manipulation Language Definition
Looking for a definition of data manipulation language (DML)? Find it here in the About Databases glossary.
Database Instance
Looking for a definition of a database instance? Look no further!
Databases Glossary
Glossary of database related terms from your About.com Guide to Databases
Top 5 Desktop Databases
Desktop databases offer simple, flexible solutions for data storage and retrieval. They're often quite sufficient to meet uncomplicated database requirements for both small and large organizations. If you're not sure if a desktop database is right for you, try reading the Choosing a Database series of articles which cover both desktop and server databases in depth
Choosing a Database Product
Oracle, SQL Server, Access, MySQL, DB2, Paradox. There's a vast world of database products on the market today. Which one is best suited for your enterprise? We'll guide you through the selection process.
Triggers
Triggers may be used to automate common database actions. Learn how to apply them effectively!
Object Definition
Wondering what an object is in database terms? Find out here!
Database Fundamentals
Confused by the world of databases? Looking for a concise description of how databases work? Look no further! This article introduces you to the wonderful world of databases.
Defining Database Performance
Craig Mullins' article provides a concise definition of the terms associated with measuring database performance. These concepts are central to the development of a database performance plan.
Disaster Recovery Plan
This lengthy article offers a comprehensive look at designing a database disaster recovery plan. A Microsoft Word disaster recovery plan template is available for download.
Enterprise Java Beans for DBAs
Confused about Enterprise Java Beans? Chris Kempster's article provides an introduction for Oracle database administrators.
Integrity Controls
This miniseries from DBMS Magazine analyzes the data integrity controls offered by various database mangement systems.
Mobile Database Replication
This article from DBMS Magazine offers an overview of the options facing organizations that need to employ mobile database replication solutions.
Orac Database Administration Tool
Orac provides a suite of database administration tools for users of Oracle, Sybase and Informix products. This freeware program is distributed under the GNU Public License.
What is Database Replication?
This article from the Microsoft Knowledge Base provides a lesson on the concepts of database replication with a focus on Microsoft Access.
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