Replication environments rarely remain static. Therefore, best practice is to perform regular switches to ensure that you are prepared should you need to perform one during an emergency.
MIMIX supports two methods for switching the direction in which replication occurs for a data group. These methods are known as a planned switch and an unplanned switch.
You may need to perform a switch for any of the following reasons:
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The production system becomes unavailable due to an unplanned outage. A switch in this scenario is unplanned.
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You need to perform hardware or software maintenance on the production system. Typically, you can schedule this in advance so the switch is planned.
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You need to test your recovery plan. This activity is also a planned switch. Virtual switching can also be used to test applications prior to performing a planned switch test of your recovery plan. Virtual switching is described in Support for virtual switching.
Historically, the concept of switching consists of three phases: switch to the backup system, synchronize the systems when the production is ready to use, and switch back to the production system. This round-trip view of switching assumes your goal is to return to your original production system as quickly as possible. However, some customers may have an extended time pass between phase one and the other phases, or may even view a switch as a one-way trip. MIMIX supports both conceptual views of switching.
Switching data groups is only a part of performing a switch. MIMIX provides robust support for customizing switching activity include all the needs of your environment.
Best practice for switching includes performing regular switches. Best practice also includes performing all audits using the most extensive auditing options possible when performing audits immediately prior to a planned switch to the backup system and before switching back to the production system. Best practice is to use the Assure Unified Interface to perform switch operations. If you use the native user interface, best practice is:
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For application groups, use option 4 (Switch all application groups) from the MIMIX Basic Main Menu.
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For data group-only environments, use option 5 (start or complete switch using Switch Asst.) from the MIMIX Basic Main Menu.