Databases
A database is an organized collection of data that is stored and accessed electronically. It allows for efficient retrieval, insertion, updating, and management of data.
Types of Databases
1. Relational Databases (RDBMS)
- Store
data in tables (rows and columns)
- Use SQL
(Structured Query Language)
- Examples:
Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL
2. NoSQL Databases
- Designed
for high scalability and flexible schema
- Four
main types:
- Document-based:
MongoDB, CouchDB
- Key-Value
stores: Redis, DynamoDB
- Column-based:
Cassandra, HBase
- Graph-based:
Neo4j, Amazon Neptune
Databases are used everywhere in technology to store,
manage, and retrieve data efficiently.
Primary Uses of Databases
1. Data Storage
Store structured (SQL) or unstructured (NoSQL) data Centralized
and organized repository Supports large volumes of data (e.g., terabytes or
petabytes)
2. Data Retrieval & Querying
Efficient search, filtering, sorting, and joining of data
Enables reports, dashboards, and analytics.
Use of query languages like SQL, MongoDB Query Language,
etc.
Use in Applications
- Web
Applications: Store user data, logins, form entries (MySQL, MongoDB)
- Mobile
Apps: Local and cloud sync data (Firebase, Realm)
- Enterprise
Systems: ERP, CRM, HRM platforms (Oracle, MS SQL Server)
- Cloud
Services: Scalable, managed databases (Amazon RDS, MongoDB Atlas)
- Analytics/BI
Tools: Dashboards powered by real-time or batch data (PostgreSQL,
BigQuery)
