Maintaining Securing and Completing a Database

Back up, compact, document and test a complete beginner database project.

What you will learn

• Create a practical backup and maintenance routine
• Understand trusted content and multiuser preparation
• Complete and test a small working database

Before you begin

Use a practice database containing non-sensitive sample information. Access versions can place commands differently, so use the ribbon search box when a named command is not immediately visible. Back up the file before structural changes.

Back up and maintain

Back up the database before design changes, imports, action queries or repairs. Store a recoverable copy separately and test that it opens.

Compact and Repair can reclaim unused space and address some damage. Make a backup first and obtain exclusive access because the operation can disrupt other users.

Use trust carefully

Access may disable active content such as macros until a database is trusted. Enable content only when the file and publisher are known and the database was obtained safely.

For multiuser work, consider splitting the database into shared tables and a front end for each user. Test permissions, network reliability and backups before rollout.

Complete the project

Build Customers and Orders tables, their relationship, a useful query, a data-entry form and a grouped report. Add sample records that test validation and edge cases.

Document the purpose, tables, relationships, important rules, backup location and trusted owner. Test common tasks as a user before relying on the database.

Guided practice

1. Create a dated backup of the practice database.
2. Run final relationship and validation tests.
3. Complete the query, form and report, then verify sample totals.
4. Write a short maintenance and recovery checklist.

Knowledge check

1. What must happen before Compact and Repair?
2. Why can active content be risky?
3. What objects should the final project include?

Completion standard

Continue when you can complete the guided practice safely and explain the knowledge-check answers in your own words.