Li wrote: >We are currently using traditional OS level backup. Our current systems are >not 24/7 so we can afford to have a 2-hour window to just do backups. We are >in the process of implementing a new 24/7 system. Apparently the traditional >way of backup is not suitable for this new system. There are 2 choices for >me: RMAN or backup agent. I am thinking to use RMAN if it doesn't impact the >database too much and users are able to access the database as usual during >the backup time period. One thing about RMAN is it is much easier on a running database than other backups. See http://download-west.oracle.com/docs/cd/B10501_01/server.920/a96519/back up.htm#1004920 about fractured blocks - that means more data must be written to redo during non-rman backups. Less of an issue if you are using a method that breaks a mirror so doesn't keep the db in backup mode for long. But of course, resilvering a mirror sometimes has its own issues. Joel Garry http://www.garry.to -- http://www.freelists.org/webpage/oracle-l