MySQL HotCopy

From KallestadWiki

MySQL HotCopy is a piece of software that backs up mysql databases live. I was turned onto this utility via Mike Rubel's rsync backup page where he mention's Darrel O'Pry's Script that back's up mysql databases.

I did find this thread at vbulletin.com that mentions the dramatic speed improvements over mysqldump for large databases.

I also found MySQL's page on mysqlhotcopy.

It certainly is a handy utility - making backup's a snap, but the downside is that it only works with MyISAM tables and archive tables - meaning that if you require transactional support, you are left with mysqldump.