Database replication: Definition, types and setup

Database replication is the process of creating and storing copies of a database in different locations, such as cloud data warehouses or data lakes. It improves data availability and accessibility by allowing users to access copies of the same (up-to-date) data. There are two types of database replication: active/active replication, where every system can process changes and databases are synced in all directions; and read-only replication, where replicated databases only receive changes from the primary database. Database replication offers benefits such as improved disaster recovery, lower data latency, and reduced server load. However, it also presents challenges like ensuring data consistency and managing multiple servers and destinations. There are three main types of database replication: full-table, key-based incremental, and log-based incremental. To properly implement a database replication process in an organization, one should identify the data source, determine the scope of replication, decide on a replication frequency, choose a replication type and method, and use a database replication tool.