IBM Db2 12.1: Essentials for Relational DBAs

Overview

This course provides a high-level overview of IBM Db2 version 12.1, giving relational database administrators the foundational skills needed to manage and support Db2 environments effectively. Learners will develop essential competencies in installation, configuration, database creation, and day-to-day administration tasks.

The course covers key topics including Db2 product editions and architecture, command-line and GUI tools, instance and database configuration, storage management, object creation, performance tuning with utilities, and backup and recovery strategies. Learners will also explore troubleshooting techniques using diagnostic logs and system views.

Hands-on lab exercises throughout the course allow learners to apply concepts by performing real-world tasks such as creating databases, configuring automatic storage, running utilities like RUNSTATS and REORG, and executing recovery procedures.

By the end of the course, learners will be proficient in administering Db2 v12.1 systems and confidently handling routine operations, performance optimization, and recovery scenarios.

Audience

This course is intended for entry-level or transitioning database administrators, system administrators, and developers who need foundational skills to manage and support IBM Db2 v12.1 environments.

Prerequisites

Participants should have the following skills:

• Basic knowledge of relational database concepts
• Familiarity with operating systems (Linux/Unix/Windows)
• No prior Db2 experience required

Objective

After completing this course, learners should be able to:

• Compare the core features, limitations, and appropriate use cases of the Db2 product editions
• Explain the Db2 versioning model and the role of Mod Packs, Fix Packs, and Cumulative Service Builds
• Use the Db2 Command Line Processor (CLP) to execute SQL statements, Db2 commands, and operating system commands
• Identify and apply appropriate command-line utilities to support administrative and development tasks in Db2
• Create, configure, and manage a Db2 instance using both command line utilities and the Data Management Console
• Configure and manage database settings using commands such as GET DB CFG, UPDATE DB CFG, RESET DB CFG, and AUTOCONFIGURE
• Create and manage core database objects such as schemas, tables,  indexes, views, aliases, and triggers using SQL statements
• Use external tables for loading and accessing data from file-based or object store sources, and manage referential integrity and constraints within the database schema
• Use Db2 utilities such as EXPORT, IMPORT, RUNSTATS, and REORG to manage and maintain data and table performance
• Execute recovery-related commands such as BACKUP, RESTORE, ROLLFORWARD, and RECOVER DATABASE to maintain data availability and integrity

Course Outline

Course Introduction

Unit 1: Introduction to Db2 v12.1

Unit 2: Db2 Command Line and GUI Tools

Unit 3: The Db2 Database Manager Instance

Unit 4: Creating Databases and Data Placement

Unit 5: Creating Database Objects

Unit 6: Data Management Fundamentals

Unit 7: Recovery and Troubleshooting Fundamentals