Database snapshots
A database snapshot is a read-only static view of a database at a specific point in time.
Description
In the context of AWS, database snapshots are primarily used with Amazon RDS (Relational Database Service) and Amazon Aurora. When a snapshot is created, it captures the state of the database, including its data and configuration settings, allowing for point-in-time recovery and backup. Snapshots can be created manually or automatically based on a defined schedule, enabling users to restore their database to a previous state in cases of data corruption, accidental deletion, or other issues. AWS also offers incremental snapshots, which only save the changes made since the last snapshot, optimizing storage and reducing costs. Additionally, these snapshots can be shared across AWS accounts or regions, facilitating collaboration and disaster recovery strategies. Overall, database snapshots are a crucial feature for maintaining data integrity, ensuring business continuity, and providing an easy way to manage backups in cloud environments.
Examples
- An RDS instance snapshot taken daily to ensure data can be restored before any critical updates.
- An Aurora snapshot shared with another AWS account to facilitate collaborative development without risking production data.
Additional Information
- Snapshots can be restored to a new database instance, allowing users to run tests or analyze data without impacting the original database.
- AWS provides tools to automate the creation and management of snapshots, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing manual overhead.