How different is DB2 from Oracle?

[Former Member]

I used to be SAP+Oracle on UNIX.

Now I am getting into SAP+DB2 on UNIX.

Could you inform me how painful would be the transition?

And any advice? Thanks!

[Former Member]

Dear Jennifer,

you are not alone. Migrating to DB2 is not "open heart surgery", but a well defined process which is followed by many SAP customers these days.

Architecturally, the differences between Oracle and DB2 are easy to grasp, as both RDBMS are UNIX / Windows based.

I would suggest that you first take a look at the SAP DB2 Database Administration Guide which came with your specific SAP Release. This is for quick ramp-up.

Then, take a further look at https://www.sdn.sap.com/irj/sdn/db6. There is good, dense information to read, such as IBM's Redbooks,

Attending one of SAP's ADM535 or TADM56 classes is strongly recommended as well. Good hands-on teaching, "own systems" to play on, up-to-date information via SAP.

Greetings,

Martin

[Former Member]

Martin:

Thanks!

May I ask 2 more questions?

1) Why many SAP/Oracle shops move towards SAP/DB2?

Any move from SAP/DB2 to SAP/Oracle?

2) where to get the a well defined process for the migration to DB2?

Thanks!

[Former Member]

Hello Jennifer,

1) the reason why a lot of companies migrate from oracle to db2 in the sap context, is the on-going "war" between sap and oracle. SAP has changed as a result the prices for DB2. SAP with DB2 is in most cases cheaper than SAP with Oracle.

2) http://service.sap.com/systemcopy

Regards,

Alexander