Data replication is the process of copying data from one database to another so they stay in sync. It's like having a bunch of clones running around pretending to be the real thing, except in this case it's actually useful for scaling and reliability.

How to use it in a sentence

• I was trying to debug an issue in production when I realized the data replication was lagging behind, so I was basically looking at stale data the whole time. Just another day in the life of a 10X engineer!

• My manager keeps talking about how data replication is going to solve all our problems, but I know it's just going to create a whole new set of headaches for me to deal with. I'll stick to writing code, thanks.

If you actually want to learn more...

• Using logs to build a solid data infrastructure (or: why dual writes are a bad idea) - A deep dive into how logs can be used for data replication and why dual writes are a recipe for disaster.

• Turning the database inside-out with Apache Samza - An exploration of how event-driven architectures and log-based data replication can turn traditional database thinking on its head.

• Uncovering the Seams in Mainframes for Incremental Modernisation - A look at how data replication can be used to incrementally migrate legacy systems to the cloud, because apparently mainframes are still a thing in 2023.

Note: the Developer Dictionary is in Beta. Please direct feedback to skye@statsig.com.