Submitted by: Submitted by deeCee
Views: 341
Words: 345
Pages: 2
Category: Science and Technology
Date Submitted: 07/20/2012 10:49 AM
A database is defined as “structured collection of records or data that is stored in a computer system.” This definition does not include the fact that the information that is stored in a database must be first stored on some sort of medium and secondly must be retrieved somehow. Therefore a more complete definition would be “it is a system involving data, the hardware that physically stores that data, the software that utilizes the hardware's file system in order to 1) store the data and 2) provide a standardized method for retrieving or changing the data, and finally, the users who turn the data into information.” (Sol, 1998) So a database cannot exist without the hardware that actually stores and retrieves the data but in addition the software that presents the data to the user for manipulation.
Databases can be split into two categories those being the desktop database and the server database. A desktop database “is oriented toward single-user applications and reside on standard personal computers.” (Chapel, 2009) “Server databases contain mechanisms to ensure the reliability and consistency of data and are geared toward multi-user applications.” (Chapel, 2009) There are several database products on the market for both a server environment and for personal use. Some of the most popular desktop database management systems are; Microsoft Access, FoxPro, FileMaker Pro, Paradox and Lotus Approach. And some of the major offerings for the server environment there are; SQL Server, Oracle and IBM DB2.
Given the vast spectrum of product offerings spanning from the enterprise operating within a server environment or the home user on a pc, everyone could use a database. The home user could use a database to keep track of documents and the uses for enterprise applications the uses are endless.
REFERENCES
Sol, S. (1998, August 16). What is a Database. Retrieved May 1, 2009, from Web Developers Virtual Library:...