Auditing a database is a relatively simple bit of database management which should be part of a routine. Most management databases create records of operations performed over time. Using the database should allow the management to see which operations were performed by which employee at what time. Some databases even allow for verification by collecting information about where and when the data was entered.

Usually database audits are only carried out when important personnel leave their jobs. Disabling their administrative privileges is a task which should be undertaken immediately to prevent any damage. Disgruntled employees can sometimes try to sabotage a business when they leave, so keeping administrative privileges constantly updated is recommended.

Another time when audits are commonly carried out is when there is a system failure or crash. Often looking at data records can help managers to identify how the error occurred. Don’t blame employees; it’s not necessarily their fault if they haven’t received training in more technical aspects of their jobs.

Solving the problem which has been caused is the first step to be undertaken by your support staff, and an instructional period should follow to ensure that the same problem doesn’t occur again. If you are able to identify individual employees who caused the problem then ensure that they know how to avoid it in the future.

Audit records can be stored on the computer system, or a hard copy can be printed out onto paper. While physical copies might be slightly safer than digital data, filing all the paper work can create storage issues and is far from easy to use.

If you are using one of the popular database software packages then performing an audit is quite simply, and much of the information you will need is available online.

If you have a support team they might need to audit their configurations and settings on a semi-regular bases. Databases of all types, including Oracle, Microsoft and Informix can be audited on SQL servers. It allows the support staff to ensure that un-needed functions are disabled, and security weaknesses patched up to reduce the risk of hacking.

When the system support team tells you to audit the database, it is necessary. It may seem cumbersome and time-consuming but protecting the performance of your database should be priority. Auditing is best conducted on a regular basis, as otherwise it really can become a mammoth task.

Author Bio: John McE writes articles on a number of subjects including Oracle database management software and database auditing.

Category: Computers/Databases
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