The main motive of Database Administration is to ensure seamless availability of the Database whenever needed.  Database Administration is a common word coined to denote various aspects of maintaining a database environment. Activities such as testing, archiving, security control, monitoring, etc. are all a part of Database Administration.  Frequent updates and hardware/software configuration related to the DBMS, which is very much essential for an optimal functioning of the database, are often considered as a part of Database Administration.