# Using TiDB Binlog - Preparation

__*TiDB binlog preparation*__

+ Before starting TiDB Binlog, we need to ensure that the source end (upstream) and target (downstream) data are consistent

-------------------------------------------------------------
Before starting TiDB Binlog, we need to ensure that the upstream and downstream data are consistent. Generally, we do a full backup of the upstream (source) to the downstream (target database). Generally, we can choose the Dumpling and TiDB Lightning tools introduced earlier, or use BR for backup recover. At the same time, we need to record the end time point (TSO) of the full import.