Originally posted by Axr2
1) In what scenario would a DBA initiate a "Full" backup versus doing an "full incremental level 0" backup? I don't see why a DBA would ever kick off the former. Might as well do a "level 0" instead everytime, right?

Functionally they are the same thing. However, if you are implementing an incremental backup strategy, a "Full" backup can't be used as a baseline.


2) Below are the definitions of "Full" and "Incremental" backups from the TRM. Now what is a "Whole" database backup (referred to in the below 'Note')?! Per my understanding - full, whole, and incremental only backup used data blocks in the datafiles.

Kinda yes, kinda no. RMAN backs up blocks that have been used regardless of whether they are empty or not. RMAN won't backup blocks that have never been used.

Not familiar with what the difference between a Whole backup and a Full backup are.