DB2 Instance

It is defined as a logical data server environment. All databases are created within instances on data servers. When multiple instances are created  on same server it provides a unique database server environment using which you can differentiate your tasks going on, such as maintain a testing environment and a production environment on same machine.

You may have different administrative groups working with different instances. Information related to instances are stored in instance directory. Location of instance directory cant be changed once created. It contains information like:

· Database manager configuration file

· System database directory

· Node directory

· Node configuration files

· Other files containing debugging information

DB2 Storage Model

To create an instance in windows you have to write following command:

            db2icrt

To start an instance:

            DB2START

            NET START (for windows)

To stop an instance:

            DB2STOP

            NET STOP (for windows)

To restart an instance:

            DB2STOP & DB2START

To obtain name of currently active instance:

            GET INSTANCE