Description

XA ("eXtended Architecture") is an X/Open group standard for accessing several back-end data stores within the same global transaction. The specification governs how an XA transaction manager (such as Atomikos®) can tell a database (like Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL) what work is going on as part of what transaction, and how to conduct the two-phase commit (2PC) protocol at the end of each transaction. Also included is how to recover pending transactions from the data store.

Benefits of XA

Because it is a standard, any compliant data store (driver) can work with any compliant transaction manager as part of a global (distributed) transaction. In other words, XA provides the glue between the transaction manager and the data stores as far as two-phase-commit is concerned. This is why, for instance, Atomikos® can work with databases such as Oracle™ or Sybase™ and still commit or rollback everything.

XA transactions in Java

Xa transactions in Java are easy and simple with Atomikos®. You can start for free with TransactionsEssentials. Also check the PDF manuals included in the free download for more information on JTA/XA.

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More Information

Check this Additional Background Reading, including the specification itself.