I’m trying to do automated incremental backups following these instructions: https://www.monetdb.org/Documentation/UserGuide/FastDumpRestore My question is whether why isn’t it enough to just stop the DB? Is the waiting for open sessions a courtesy or is it required that no statements are executing prior to shutdown? Is it similar for the shutdown command? It gives people in a session time to exit or something? Again, these are to be automated at a time of night that queries should not be being executed. Bottom line question: is it enough to stop and lock a database to ensure the binary backup will have no errors that prevent the backup from being restored or are the other steps required? Thanks, Vince The information transmitted, including any attachments, is intended only for the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain confidential and/or privileged information. Any review, retransmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by individuals or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited, and all liability arising therefrom is disclaimed. If you have received this communication in error, please delete the information from any computer and notify the sender.