What are the differences between physical and logical backups for MySQL on AWS RDS

Physical Backup

1. Type of Backup: Physical backups are raw copies of the directories and files that store database contents. They are often used for larger datasets and can be faster and less resource-intensive.

2. Tools Used: Tools like Percona XtraBackup can be used to create physical backups of MySQL databases on self-managed instances or on Amazon EC2 instances. However, these tools cannot be used to create physical backups of RDS for MySQL instances.

3. Advantages:
- Faster and less resource-intensive.
- Captures the complete state and structure of the database.
- Ensures consistency and recoverability of the database.

4. Disadvantages:
- Not portable and can only be restored to the same platform and version of the database software.
- Not suitable for selective backup or restoration of specific objects or schemas within the database.

Logical Backup

1. Type of Backup: Logical backups save the content and structure of the database in a logical form. They are often used for smaller datasets and can be used to transfer data between different database systems or formats.

2. Tools Used: Tools like mysqldump or MyDumper can be used to create logical backups of MySQL databases.

3. Advantages:
- Portable and can be restored to different platforms or versions of the database software.
- Allows selective backup or restoration of specific objects or schemas within the database.
- Can be used to transfer data between different database systems or formats.

4. Disadvantages:
- Slower and more resource-intensive.
- May not capture all information or dependencies of database objects.
- May not be consistent or recoverable if the database is modified during the backup process.

Conclusion

Physical backups are suitable for larger datasets and provide faster and less resource-intensive backup and recovery. Logical backups are suitable for smaller datasets and provide more flexibility in terms of portability and selective backup or restoration.