Abstract

This paper provides the system administrator with a fundamental understanding of database architecture internals so that he can better configure relational database systems. The topics of discussion include buffer management, access methods, and lock management. To both illustrate concepts in practice, and to contrast the two architectures of market leaders, Oracle and Sybase implementations are referenced throughout the paper. The paper describes different backup strategies and when each strategy is appropriate. In conclusion, the paper describes special hardware considerations for high availability and performance of database systems.

• View the full text of this paper in HTML form and PDF form.

• If you need the latest Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can download it from Adobe's site.

• To become a USENIX Member, please see our Membership Information.