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Databases

A database is a structured collection of information stored on a computer, used for various tasks such as storing images or analyzing data. There are multiple types of databases, including centralized, cloud, commercial, and relational databases, each with unique features suited for different needs. Understanding these types is crucial for businesses and individuals to efficiently manage their data.

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2 views

Databases

A database is a structured collection of information stored on a computer, used for various tasks such as storing images or analyzing data. There are multiple types of databases, including centralized, cloud, commercial, and relational databases, each with unique features suited for different needs. Understanding these types is crucial for businesses and individuals to efficiently manage their data.

Uploaded by

Saruni Muncha
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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What are databases?

A database is a collection of information stored within a computer. Databases are


used for everything from storing pictures on your computer to buying items online
and analyzing the stock market. Databases allow computers to store essential
information in an organized and easily searchable way.As database technology has
improved over the years, so too have the different types of databases. There are
now many different types of databases, each with its strengths and weaknesses
based on how they are designed. It's especially important for businesses to
understand the different types of databases, to ensure they have the most
efficient setup, however, some individuals may need to learn this as well.
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Types of databases
In many cases, individuals find that they need different kinds of databases for
different tasks. Below are some common types of databases:

 Centralized database
 Cloud database
 Commercial database
 Distributed database
 End-user database
 Graph database
 NoSQL database
 Object-oriented database
 Open-source database
 Operational database
 Personal database
 Relational database

Centralized database

A centralized database is one that operates entirely within a single location.


Centralized databases are typically used by bigger organizations, such as a
business or university. The database itself is located on a central computer or
database system. Users can access the database through a computer network, but
it is the central computer that runs and maintains the database.

Cloud database

A cloud database is one that runs over the Internet. The data is stored on a local
hard drive or server, but the information is available online. This makes it easy to
access your files from anywhere, as long as you have an Internet connection. To
use a cloud database, users can either build one themselves or pay for a service to
store their data for them. Encryption is an essential part of any cloud database, as
all information needs to be protected as it is transmitted online.Related: Learn
About Being a Data Manager

Commercial database

A commercial database is any that is designed by a commercial business.


Businesses develop feature-rich databases, which they then sell to their
customers. Commercial databases can vary in terms of composition or the
technology they use. The defining trait of commercial databases is having users
pay to use them, unlike open source databases.

Distributed database

A distributed database is one that is spread out over multiple devices. Rather than
having all information stored on a single device, like other databases on this list,
distributed databases will operate across multiple machines, such as different
computers within the same location or across a network. The benefits of a
distributed database include increased speed, better reliability and ease of
expansion.Related: Learn About Being a Data Scientist

End-user database

End-user is a term used in product development that refers to the person who
uses the product. An end-user database is, therefore, a database that is primarily
used by a single person. A good example of this type of database is a spreadsheet
stored on your local computer.

Graph database
Graph databases are databases that focus equally on the data and the connections
between them. In this database, data is not constricted to predefined models.
Most other databases can find connections between data when you run a search.
With a graph database, these connections are stored inside the database right
alongside the original data. This makes for a more efficient and faster database
when your primary goal is to manage the connections between your data.

NoSQL database

A NoSQL database has a hierarchy similar to a file folder system and the data
within it is unstructured, or non-relational. This lack of structure allows them to
process larger amounts of data at speed and makes it easier to expand in the
future. Cloud computing regularly makes use of NoSQL databases.

Object-oriented database

Object-oriented databases are ones in which data is represented as objects and


classes. An object is an item, such as a name or phone number, while a class is a
group of objects. Object-oriented databases are a type of relational database.
Consider using an object-oriented database when you have a large amount of
complex data that you want to process quickly.

Open-source database

An open-source database is designed for the public to use for free. Unlike
commercial databases, users can download or sign up for open source databases
without paying a fee. The term "open source" refers to a program in which users
can see how it was written and constructed and are free to make their own
changes to the program. Open-source databases are typically much cheaper than
commercial databases, but they can also lack some of the more advanced features
found in commercial databases.

Operational database

The purpose of an operational database is to allow users to modify data in real


time. Operational databases are critical in business analytics and data
warehousing. They can be set up either as relational databases or NoSQL,
depending on needs. Conventional databases rely on batch processing, where
commands are carried out in groups. Operational databases, on the other hand,
allow you to add, edit and remove data at any moment.Related: Learn About
Being a Data Analyst

Personal database

A personal database is one that is designed for a single person. It is typically


stored on a personal computer and has a very simple design, consisting of only a
few tables. Personal databases are not typically suitable for complex operations,
large amounts of data or business operations.

Relational database

Relational databases are the other major type of database, opposite of NoSQL.
With a relational database, information is stored structured about other data. A
good representation of a relational database would be the connection between a
person shopping online and their shopping cart. Relational databases are often
preferred when you are concerned about the integrity of your data, or when you're
not particularly focused on scalability.

Frequently asked questions


What's a relational vs. a nonrelational database?
Relational databases store information using tables, but
a nonrelational database doesn't. Nonrelational databases may use
document-oriented hierarchical structures. An organization may use a
relational database if it wants to navigate information easily and define
relationships between data points. A nonrelational database might be
more appropriate if an organization wants greater flexibility in analyzing
and outputting data.
Is a spreadsheet a database?
While many people visualize database tables as spreadsheets,
spreadsheets and databases are distinct. A database gathers information
from external tables while spreadsheets store data in individual cells that
exist within rows and columns. Databases are more complex and can
store more information than spreadsheets. In some applications,
spreadsheets may be more advantageous because of their affordability
and the lack of programming knowledge necessary to execute functions.
Which database is ideal to learn?
The ideal database to learn depends on what profession you want to
pursue, so consider researching job descriptions related to your desired
role and the industry you want to enter. Employers usually list the
databases in which they want candidates to be proficient. You can note
these databases and learn them by consulting online resources or
pursuing certification programs.

 
Database administrators

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