Replication of 100+ database copies with global distribution

[phorst]

In May 2009, my company implemented a distributed database configuration for a non-profit relief and development agency that has offices and staff in about 50 countries around the world.

The tool set included Copycat, D2007, Firebird DB and IBObjects Connector.

Currently we have over 100 copies of a database replicating to a single hub database located in the USA.

The frequency a database may be replicated can range from daily to once every few months.

Currently we use OpenVPN to provide a secure and compressed link between the local office and the hub office. I will be soon testing a VPN channel using Microsoft Window's standard VPN.

Many office locations do not have fast internet connections (all have DSL) yet this configuration provides reasonable performance.

I also expect to be implementing the same application and tool set to another development agency with perhaps 30 offices around the world. The experience with the first implementation and the capabilities of Copycat are an important factor in building confidence in the reliability of this form of a distributed database application.

Phil Horst