Database Management System
Relational Database Management System
A Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) is a software system
designed to manage databases based on the relational model. It allows users to
create, update, manage, and retrieve data stored in a structured format. Here
are some key features and concepts related to RDBMS:
Key Features
1. Tables
Data is organized into tables (relations), where each table is a collection of
related data entries and consists of rows and columns.
2. Schema
Defines the structure of the database, including tables, columns, and data
types.
3. SQL (Structured Query Language)
The standard language for querying and manipulating data in an RDBMS.
ACID Properties
Ensure reliable processing of database transactions:
1. Atomicity
Ensures that all operations within a transaction are completed; if not, the
transaction is aborted.
2. Consistency
Ensures the database remains in a consistent state before and after a
transaction.
3. Isolation
Ensures that transactions are isolated from each other until completed.
4. Durability
Ensures that once a transaction is committed, it will remain so, even in the
event of a system failure.
Components
1. Tables
Consist of rows (records) and columns (fields/attributes).
2. Primary Key
A unique identifier for each record in a table.
3. Foreign Key
A field (or collection of fields) in one table that uniquely identifies a row of
another table.
4. Indexes
Improve the speed of data retrieval operations on a database table.
5. Views
Virtual tables created by querying data from one or more tables.
6. Stored Procedures
SQL code that can be saved and reused.
7. Triggers
Automatically execute a specified set of SQL statements when a certain
event occurs.
Popular RDBMS
1. MySQL: An open-source RDBMS, widely used in web applications.
2. PostgreSQL: An open-source RDBMS known for its advanced features and
standards compliance.
3. Oracle Database: A multi-model database management system produced and
marketed by Oracle Corporation.
4. Microsoft SQL Server: A relational database management system developed
by Microsoft.
5. SQLite: A self-contained, high-reliability, embedded, full-featured, public-
domain, SQL database engine.
Advantages:
1. Data Integrity: Ensures accuracy and consistency of data.
2. Data Security: Supports robust access control and security measures.
3. Data Independence: Changes to the database schema do not affect the data
access methods.
4. Flexibility: Can handle large amounts of data and complex queries.
Disadvantages:
1. Complexity: Can be complex to design and manage.
2. Performance: May not be as fast as other database models (e.g., NoSQL) for
certain types of applications, particularly those involving large-scale read and
write operations.
3. Cost: Some RDBMS solutions can be expensive, both in terms of licensing and
hardware requirements.
Applications:
- Business and Financial Applications: For managing transactions, customer
information, and financial records.
- Web Applications: For managing user data, content, and interactions.
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: For integrating various business
processes.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: For managing customer
data and interactions.
An RDBMS is essential for many applications where data integrity, consistency,
and complex querying capabilities are crucial.
