Every business organization today uses Database Management Systems to effectively store, manage and manipulate data, which is crucial for the smooth functioning of business. So the role of a database administrator is important, as he designs, configures, and maintains databases. He is also responsible for the secure collection, transmission and storage of data, as any loophole may seriously affect the business operations of the organization. Taking into consideration the significance of the role of DBAs, it is no surprise that the demand for them has been rising over the years.
Impressed? So you have decided to become a DBA and get benefited by the immense opportunities that are available in the IT job market, but how will you start?
To become DBA certified by Oracle, the leading developers of Relational Database Management Systems, you need to take one or two exams depending upon your skills and experience. If you want to work as a junior Database Administrator, you can choose the Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) certification, and if you are experienced, you can go ahead and achieve the Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) certification. There are different certifications for different versions of Oracle DBMS, but we advise you to take the latest, i.e. Oracle 10g certification.
If you have some knowledge and experience of working with the Oracle 10g database, then the OCA DBA 10g examis right for you. Just take one exam (1Z0-042) and you will get certified as an OCA. Your success depends on how well you plan your studies and prepare according to the requirements of the exam.
Before preparing for the exam, you should have complete information about the exam objectives, format, passing score etc. These are available at the Oracle Education Website. So go thorough them to have an idea of what actually are required. Here is a list of skills that you should have to be successful in the certification exam:
- Basic knowledge of Oracle architecture
- Sound knowledge of how to write SQL queries
- Installing the Oracle software
- Sound knowledge of all the utilities in 10g
- Sound knowledge of all the administrative tools in 10g such as SQL*Plus
- How to access remote database
- How to manage a database
- How to keep backup of every database
- How to use all the backups in recovery scenario
- Implementing the security options such as O.S authentication and password protection on a database
- How to export and import data among databases using the Data pump
- Sound knowledge of all the storage options available in 10g
- How to maintain a database
- Knowledge of all the deprecated views
- Sound knowledge of all the parameters used in Oracle 10g.