Backup SAP Oracle Databases Using Azure VM Backup Snapshots
This blog article provides a comprehensive step-by-step guide for backing up SAP Oracle databases using Azure VM backup snapshots, ensuring data safety and integrity. Installation of CIFS Utilities: The process begins with the installation of cifs-utils on Oracle Linux, which is the recommended OS for running Oracle databases in the cloud. Setting Up Environment Variables: Users are instructed to define necessary environment variables for resource group and storage account names. Creating SMB Credentials: The guide explains how to create a folder for SMB credentials and retrieve the storage account key, emphasizing the need for appropriate permissions. Mounting SMB File Share: Instructions are provided for checking the accessibility of the storage account and mounting the SMB file share, which will serve as a backup location for archived logs. Preparing Oracle Database for Backup:Users must place the Oracle database in hot backup mode to ensure a consistent backup while allowing ongoing transactions. Initiating Snapshot Backup: Once the VM backup is configured, users can initiate a snapshot backup to capture the state of the virtual machine, including the Oracle database. Restoration Process: The document outlines the steps for restoring the Oracle database from the backup, including updating IP addresses and starting the database listener. Final Steps and Verification: Users are encouraged to verify the configuration and ensure that all necessary backups are completed successfully, including the SMB file share.