What are the best software packages for automated backups for MySQL? Even more important than how easy the backup process is would be the restore process. If I ever get in a bind with data corruption or a failed device, I want to be able to restore everything quickly!
Any advice on what I should use/look for?
Have a good look through the existing posts on server fault, the subject is well covered already:
Some examples...
Zip files located in database directory in mysql data folder. You can write a small script and cron it. It's good for small databases less than 100MB
If it's bigger consider a php system that sync row with updated value.