Database reconstruction using embedded database backup codes

Files are stored along with embedded codes containing information useful in reconstructing a failed database that normally contains information about the files. Multiple user files are stored in the form of a managed file, identified by a managed filename. Storage of the managed file includes a number of sub-steps, among them the generation and storage of a first frame marker including a recognition pattern, the managed filename, a next-frame locator, and a sequence number distinguishing the first frame marker from other frame markers. Next, a self-describing header is generated and stored adjacent to the first frame marker. A first one of the user files is stored adjacent to the self-describing header. The self-describing header and following user file are exclusively associated with each other, and the header contains certain information about the adjacent user file. Storage of the user file and self-describing header may be punctuated by one or more intermittent frame markers, which are preferably stored at fixed intervals along the managed file. The sequence of storing a self-describing header, a user file, and any intermittent frame markers is repeated until a predetermined condition is satisfied, such as reaching the last user file for inclusion in the managed file. Then, a table-of-contents is generated and stored substantially adjacent the last user file. A frame trailer is then stored substantially adjacent the table-of-contents, the frame trailer containing information representing the position of the table-of-contents. Another aspect of the invention concerns database reconstruction using information including the embedded codes.