## Backup ID

The database system issues a backup ID (IBID) for each backup, consisting of a <key> issued by the system and the <label>. The combination of key and label clearly identifies the backup since the database instance was created or the last time it was initialized.

If you are using external backup tools, the system also issues the backup with an External Backup ID (EBID).

The label consists of a character string for the <backup_type> (complete or incremental data backup or log backup) and a <sequence_no>. Data backups are numbered sequentially, regardless of whether they are complete or incremental. The database system counts log backups separately.

After the backup is completed, the Database Manager writes the backup ID in the dbm.knl log file of the Database Manager. You can display all the contents of this file in the backup history. When you restore a database, you can display the backup history using the Database Manager and select the required backup using its backup ID.

The Loader writes the external backup ID to the log file of the Loader and to the Loader-related system tables.

If the data carrier used is a tape, we recommend that you write the backup ID on the label of the tape after completing the backup.

### Formal Description of the Backup IDs

<IBID> ::= <key><label>

<label> ::= <backup_type>_<sequence_no>

<backup_type> ::= DAT | PAG | LOG

See also:

Concepts of the Database System

Log Files

Backing Up and Restoring