Replication is a cornerstone of modern database systems, enabling high availability, scalability, and seamless data transfer across environments.

In this talk, we’ll delve into the replication capabilities of TiDB and explore how they address real-world database challenges at Bolt, the fast-growing Estonian-based mobility company.

We’ll begin with an introduction to TiDB Data Migration (DM), which facilitates MySQL-to-TiDB replication. Through practical examples, we’ll demonstrate its role in migrating MySQL workloads to TiDB, including shard consolidation.

Next, we’ll highlight TiCDC (TiDB Change Data Capture), a powerful tool for real-time data streaming. We’ll explain how TiCDC captures changes in TiDB and replicates them to downstream systems such as TiDB, MySQL, Apache Kafka, and other services. Use cases include easily reversible TiDB version upgrades, cross-region high availability with standby TiDB clusters, and real-time Change Data Capture into Kafka.

Throughout the talk, we’ll share practical tips and scenarios, including simplifying database migrations, minimiing downtime during upgrades, and ensuring data integrity in complex workflows.

Whether you’re migrating from MySQL to TiDB, upgrading TiDB clusters, or building cross-region high availability environments, this talk will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to leverage replication as a powerful tool in your database operations.