# What is the difference between full and incremental loading in database sources?

During a full load, the entire data is processed on each run whereas during an incremental load, an *Audit Field,* is specified on the basis of which, the Database source reads the incremented data only. The Incremental and full load options can be found in the properties of the *Database Source* object. For more information on full and incremental loading options, click [here](https://documentation.astera.com/astera-data-stack-v11/dataflows/sources/database-table-source).

<figure><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/ZSZJ1eFyVv71eDI5hU45/blobs/aNmjmdTuBcR1mTANeHnB/image.png" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://documentation.astera.com/astera-data-stack-v11/faqs/sources/what-is-the-difference-between-full-and-incremental-loading-in-database-sources.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.
