Database Batch Auditing Service - Tradeoffs and Alternatives

CDC Approach Tradeoffs

Log-Based CDC (Chosen)

Advantages:

• Low database overhead
• Real-time capture
• No schema changes
• Reliable

Disadvantages:

• Database-specific
• Complex setup
• Log retention dependency

Trigger-Based CDC

Advantages:

• Database-agnostic
• Simple implementation
• Immediate capture

Disadvantages:

• High overhead (10-30%)
• Schema changes required
• Performance impact

Alternative Systems

1. Debezium (Chosen)

Pros:
+ Kafka integration
+ Multiple databases
+ Active community
+ Production-ready

Cons:
- Kafka dependency
- Operational complexity

2. AWS DMS

Pros:
+ Managed service
+ No infrastructure
+ AWS integration

Cons:
- Vendor lock-in
- Cost at scale
- Limited customization

3. Custom Triggers

Pros:
+ Full control
+ Simple setup
+ No external tools

Cons:
- Performance overhead
- Maintenance burden
- Database coupling

This analysis helps choose the right auditing approach based on requirements.