Initial dataset

• Binary log provides a record of all modifications to master database starting from a fixed point: when binary logging was activated

• If all binary logs exist on master from initial install of MySQL, the slave(s) can use these to bring themselves up-to-date

• Otherwise, a snapshot of the master must be taken, using mysqldump –master-data, to provide an initial dataset for the slave(s)

• If only MyISAM tables are used, the LOAD DATA FROM MASTER statement may be used on the slave(s)