Role of DBA- Database Administrator


  • The DBA controls the database structure and sets up the definition for physical as well as logical implementation of the database.
  • One of the main reasons for using DBMSs is to have central control of both the data and the programs that access those data. A person who has such central control over the system is called a database administrator (DBA).
  • The functions of a DBA include: Schema definition. The DBA creates the original database schema by executing a set of data definition statements in the DDL.
  • The overall function of the database administrator include:
    • Schema definition: The DBA creates the original database schema by executing a set of data definition statements in the DDL.
    • Schema and physical-organization modification: The DBA carries out changes to the schema and physical organization to reflect the changing needs of the organization, or to alter the physical organization to improve performance.
    • Granting of authorization for data access: By granting different types of authorization, the database administrator can regulate which parts of the database various users can access. The authorization information is kept in a special system structure that the database system consults whenever someone attempts to access the data in the system.
    • Routine maintenance: Examples of the database administrator’s routine maintenance activities are: Periodically backing up the database, either onto tapes or onto remote servers, to prevent loss of data in case of disasters such as flooding.