Question #1620
A company operates a high-traffic MySQL database on Amazon RDS and wants to migrate to Amazon Aurora MySQL-Compatible Edition with minimal downtime and data loss. Which approach will achieve this migration with the LEAST operational complexity?
Create an automated backup of the RDS MySQL instance and restore it to a new Aurora MySQL DB cluster.
Create an Aurora read replica from the RDS MySQL instance. Promote the read replica to a standalone Aurora MySQL DB cluster once replication is complete.
Export the RDS MySQL database to Amazon S3 using mysqldump. Import the data into a new Aurora MySQL DB cluster.
Use the mysqldump utility to create a logical backup of the RDS MySQL database. Restore the backup to Aurora MySQL.
Explanation
Answer B is correct because creating an Aurora read replica allows continuous replication from the source RDS MySQL instance to Aurora. Once replication is complete, promoting the read replica to a standalone Aurora cluster ensures minimal downtime and data loss. AWS handles the replication process, reducing operational complexity.
Other options are less optimal:
- A: Restoring an automated backup requires downtime during the backup/restore process.
- C/D: Using mysqldump requires stopping writes during export/import, leading to significant downtime and manual effort.
Key Points:
1. Aurora read replicas support cross-engine replication with RDS MySQL.
2. Promoting a read replica is a quick, managed process.
3. Avoids manual data export/import steps, reducing complexity.
Answer
The correct answer is: B