For a server with only one database (that is, without independent auxiliary storage pools (IASPs) configured), the *LOCAL entry refers to the single local database. For servers with multiple databases (one system database and one or more user databases), the *LOCAL entry refers to the system database.
The local user databases are represented by entries similar to remote *IP entries. The main difference is the Remote Location field. In cases where the database cannot be switched to a different server, this field will normally contain the word LOOPBACK. LOOPBACK represents the IP address of the host server. If the database can be switched, it is recommended that the user configure the server in such a way that a specific IP address is associated with the database regardless of the server to which it is attached. For an explanation on how dedicated IP address configuration is done, see the Manage application CRG IP addresses topic. In that case, the IP address would be used in the Remote Location field.
If LOOPBACK is used for a switchable database, then whenever it is switched from the local server, the user will have to manually change the directory entry to replace LOOPBACK with the IP address of the new server to which it is attached, and then change it back to LOOPBACK when the database is switched back.