Research Computing Services

Research Computing Resources

Research Computing Resources

Database Server

Database Server

Relational databases have an important place in one's arsenal of research IT tools. Databases include powerful tools for search and analysis, and can handle large, complex data sets, enabling bigger research questions and opportunities, and making research data management as less complex task.

RCS hosts a database server running MariaDB v10.3, an open source fork of MySQL, to help meet these growing needs. Our MariaDB server is a Red Hat 6.5 Linux server with 2x 16 cores hyperthreading processors and a total of 4.5TB. To obtain a database account, please fill out the New MariaDB Account Request Form. RCS also can advise researchers in data storage planning, as well as the building of and interacting with their database.

Below we provide additional information on how to connect your database with common tools, how RCS handles data backups, and additional MariaDB resources.

Connecting to your Database

This section outlines how to connect to your database with the tools most commonly used by HBS researchers:

Connecting with Other Programs

Many applications support connecting to a database via ODBC. If you would like to connect to your database with a program not listed, then please check to see if it has ODBC support. If it does, then please folow the instructions under the section "Stata" to setup an ODBC connection.

Data Backups

RCS is working towards developing and implementing a feature-rich backup system. We will notify our users once that system is ready. We have a proof-of-concept system that will hopefully be ready by the end of the year.

What you can expect:
  • Regular, automated backup of your data set to a schedule that won't interfere with your work
  • On-demand backup

MariaDB Backups

RCS has developed a backup system for databases hosted on the RCS MariaDB server. This system relies on assigning databases to one of three backup periodicities: daily, weekly, or monthly. Daily backups are intended for smaller databases undergoing frequent modifications, while a monthly schedule is more appropriate for large databases or databases with static content.

How do you assign backup periodicity?

We will work with you to determine what best suits your data and workflow. Typically, a database will initially be assigned to a more frequent schedule. As your database matures, your database will be transitioned to a less frequent schedule.

Please note that you may request a backup at any time using a script on the Grid. Requests are handled automatically and should be fulfilled within 24 hours. To learn more about submitting requests, please contact RCS.

When will backups occur?

Databases are designated for daily backup, from Monday to Friday. Databases which are designated for weekly or monthly backup will be backed up over the weekend. Any backup request should be fulfilled within 24 hours.

How do I check the backup periodicity of my database, or when the last backup occurred?

Please contact RCS about this.