One of the tasks a MySQL DBA is responsible for is keeping data synchronized between different but related instances of their databases. It is a process meant to provide uniformity in the data presented to the database’s users. Automating this process can save time for your database team while ensuring that nothing is missed and the data is updated throughout the environment. Automation reduces the human element and guards against the mistakes or oversights from which an overworked DBA may be affected.
Why is Database Synchronization Important?
Keeping an organization’s databases synchronized is a critically important function of the company’s database team. Synchronizing the data that resides in the databases maintains consistency among all applications and users who make use of that information. In the current computing landscape that includes mobile devices, laptops, on-premises installations, and cloud instances, keeping an enterprise’s data synced is more consequential than ever before.
The disparate and distributed nature of the potential database users adds a layer of complexity to maintaining consistency in the data they have at their disposal. Developers located remotely need to know that they are all working with the same building blocks. Failure to keep the databases synced will lead to errors and confusion as to the status of their projects. Essentially, what is desired is that all instances of a particular database consistently present an identical platform for the developers and users of the system.
Scenarios that Require Database Synchronization
There are some specific situations where synchronizing your databases is required. Some of them are:
- Performing database migrations
- Importing data between two databases
- Regularly synchronizing between database instances such as your production and test versions
- Moving data involved in different stages of the development cycle
Imports and migrations may not occur on a regular basis and might be addressed individually as the need arises. Keeping data fresh in the testing, QA, and development phases implies a regularly scheduled process of synchronization. Making the same data available to developers in multiple locations is a key component in facilitating their ability to effectively collaborate and keep the project moving in the right direction. The last thing you want is for your team to be diligently working to solve a problem using different versions of a database.
Automating MySQL Server Synchronization
The synchronization of your MySQL Servers and databases can be done manually and may need to be performed in this manner to address specific issues or problems. Automating the process where possible is an excellent way to ensure that nothing slips between the cracks and causes inconsistencies in the system’s data.
SQLyog is a comprehensive MySQL management tool that provides an easy way to keep your databases in sync. Among the many excellent features offered by this product is its SQLyog Job Agent (SJA). It offers a multithreaded application that is designed to automate and schedule data synchronization between two MySQL hosts. The inclusion of wizards helps you to create job definitions without knowledge of XML or delving into the schemas used in creating the definitions.
SQLyog’s Job Agent employs an algorithm to generate checksums to identify changes in the database instances. This reduces the throughput as only those rows which have been modified since the last sync need to be transferred. Setting up automatic synchronization with SQLyog will give you the peace of mind that comes with the knowledge that your databases are consistent throughout your organization.