SAP running on Public Cloud with Large Oracle DB VM’s on Oracle Linux usually face challenges on performance on their DB backups. Most of the company use prefer to use third party tool for backup solution rather then rely on Public Cloud native solution as it helps them to take incremental/differential backup on daily basis rather then taking complete backup.
I am here taking an example of Commvault Backup Solution with SAP running on Oracle DB – Size more then 4 TB.
Commvault backup is an essential component of any enterprise data management system. However, if backups are running slow, it can cause significant downtime and affect the overall performance of the system. One of the main reasons for slow backups is an insufficient understanding of the underlying backup processes, particularly when it comes to incremental backups in Oracle databases. In this article, we will look at why Commvault backups are running slow in Oracle incremental backups and how the Benefits of enabling BCT (Block Change Tracking) in Oracle DB can help improve the speed and efficiency of these backups.
What is an Incremental Backup?
An incremental backup is a backup that only captures the changes made to a database since the last backup. This type of backup is used to minimize the amount of data that needs to be backed up, reducing the time and storage space required for the backup process. In Oracle databases, incremental backups can be performed using the RMAN (Recovery Manager) utility, which provides a flexible and powerful backup and recovery solution.
Why are Commvault Backups Running Slow in Oracle Incremental Backup?
Commvault backups running slow in Oracle incremental backups can be caused by several factors, including:
Large data volumes: Oracle databases can store large amounts of data, which can slow down the backup process.
Lack of indexing: If the database is not properly indexed, it can slow down the backup process, particularly in incremental backups, where only changes need to be backed up.
Poor database design: A poorly designed database can also slow down the backup process, particularly in incremental backups.
Poor network performance: If the network performance is poor, it can slow down the backup process.
Inadequate hardware: Inadequate hardware, such as insufficient memory, CPU or disk I/O, can also slow down the backup process.
How BCT (Block Change Tracking) Can Help Improve Backup Performance
BCT (Block Change Tracking) is a feature in Oracle that helps to improve the speed and efficiency of incremental backups. When BCT is enabled, the database tracks changes to blocks of data, allowing RMAN to quickly identify which blocks have been modified and need to be backed up. This reduces the time required to perform incremental backups and reduces the amount of data that needs to be backed up, making the backup process faster and more efficient. This is the uptime parameter and can be change on the fly (No DB restart requires)
Benefits of Enabling BCT in Oracle
There are several benefits to enabling BCT in Oracle, including:
Improved backup performance: Enabling BCT can significantly improve the speed and efficiency of incremental backups, reducing the amount of data that needs to be backed up and reducing the time required for the backup process.
Reduced storage requirements: By reducing the amount of data that needs to be backed up, BCT can also help to reduce storage requirements.
Faster recovery times: BCT can also help to reduce recovery times, as incremental backups are faster and more efficient.
Simplified backup processes: By improving the speed and efficiency of incremental backups, BCT can simplify the backup process, making it easier to manage and maintain.
BCT file also can be enabled on Active Dataguard (Standby database).
How to Enable and Disable BCT parameter
To perform the activity you can follow below Oracle website –
https://docs.oracle.com/database/121/ADMQS/GUID-3BAA0D48-CA35-4CD7-810E-50C703DC6FEB.htm
Conclusion
Commvault backups running slow in Oracle incremental backups can have a significant impact on the performance and availability of enterprise systems. By understanding the causes of slow backups and the benefits of enabling BCT in Oracle, organizations can improve the speed and efficiency of their backups and ensure the availability and reliability of their data. With the right tools, techniques and strategies in place,