Protect databases - Microsoft Access 2013 - page 342

Preventing database problems
Normal database use can cause the internal structure of any database in any database pro-
gram to become fragmented, sometimes resulting in a bloated file and inefficient use of
disk space. Fortunately, Access monitors the condition of database files as you open and
work with them, but you still need to pay attention, particularly if the performance of the
database seems slow or erratic.
You can take a variety of steps to help keep an Access 2013 database healthy and running
smoothly. Your first line of defense against damage or corruption in any kind of file is to
back it up. Database files can rapidly become very large, so you need to choose an appro-
priate place to store a backup copy, such as a DVD, another computer on your network, or
removable media such as a USB flash drive or external hard disk.
TIP To back up a split database, you must back up the front end and back end separately.
You might want to back up the back end (the data) on a regular schedule and the front end
only after a design change.
In addition to regularly backing up the database, you can use the following Access utilities
to keep it running smoothly:
▪ Compact and Repair Database Optimizes performance by rearranging how the
file is stored on your hard disk, and then attempts to repair any corruption in tables,
forms, and reports.
TIP It's a good idea to compact and repair a database often. You might even want
to have Access run this utility automatically each time the database is closed. To
automatically run the utility, display the Current Database page of the Access Op-
tions dialog box, select the Compact On Close check box in the Application Options
area, and then click OK.
▪ Database Documenter Produces a detailed report that contains enough information
to rebuild the database structure if necessary.
▪ Analyze Performance Analyzes the objects in the database and offers three types of
feedback: ideas, suggestions, and recommendations. You can instruct Access to opti-
mize the file by following through on any of the suggestions or recommendations.
▪ Analyze Table Tests database tables for compliance with standard database design
principles, suggests solutions to problems, and implements those solutions at your
request.