Multi-section incremental backups

We have discussed the section size clause and how it can help in improving the performance of the backup of large sized data files by breaking them into multiple file sections. The same behavior from database release 12c can be used in incremental backups as well.

To make use of the section size clause in level 1 incremental backups, the parameter COMPATIBLE must be set to 12.0. For level 0 incremental backups, the parameter COMPATIBLE can be 11.0. You can perform a level 1 incremental backup with multiple file sections as shown in the following command line:

RMAN> BACKUP INCREMENTAL LEVEL 1 SECTION SIZE 100m DATABASE;

It's always a challenge for DBAs to find ways to speed up their backup jobs. Using incremental backups along with the BCT file and dividing the large sized files into multiple file sections is a great step forward in the right direction.

Incremental backups are not only helpful in backups but are also preferred by RMAN when performing database...