Nexa Lab Blog – SQL databases are the cornerstone of effective data management in many software applications, providing robust tools for storing, retrieving, and manipulating structured data.
Whether you’re a developer, database administrator, or business decision-maker, understanding the basic concept of SQL databases can help you make informed decisions and optimize your data management practices.
Let us now learn more about SQL databases, including their definitions, features, and types, as well as some tips for selecting the right tools.
What is an SQL database?
An SQL database, also known as a relational database, is a structured collection of tables where each row represents a data entity, and each column defines a specific information field.
These databases are built using Structured Query Language (SQL) to create, store, update, and retrieve data. SQL databases are fundamental for various applications and services across industries, facilitating operations like transaction processing, analytics, and business intelligence.
They store data in tables with rows representing entities and columns defining attributes, allowing users to add data, execute queries, and manage data effectively.
For example, a company may use an SQL database to store customer information, with each row representing a different customer and columns defining attributes such as name, email address, and purchase history. This database can be queried to analyze customer behavior, track sales trends, and personalize marketing strategies.
Before we go into more detail about SQL databases, you might want to learn about web databases. A web database is a database that can be accessed and managed using a web browser. For more information, see our previous article.
Learn More: Web Databases: Definitions, Types, and Best Practices
Features of SQL Databases
SQL databases have a wide range of features that make them powerful tools for managing and querying relational databases. Some of the key features include the data definition and data manipulation language, the relational foundation, a high-performance querying system, and scalability.
- Data Definition Language (DDL): SQL provides a set of commands to define and modify the structure of a database, including creating tables, modifying table structure, and dropping tables.
- Data Manipulation Language (DML): SQL provides a set of commands to manipulate data within a database, including adding, modifying, and deleting data.
- Relational Foundation: SQL databases are based on the relational model, which organizes data into tables that can be linked by common attributes.
- High-performance: SQL databases are designed to handle complex queries and large volumes of data efficiently.
- Scalability: SQL databases can handle large volumes of data and can be scaled up or down as per the requirements of the application.
What are the 4 types of database in SQL?
There are many types of databases that can be managed using SQL, but there are at least four common types. Those types are relational, hierarchial, network, and NoSQL databases. Here are the explanation of each according to AlmaBetter Bytes:
1. Relational Databases
These databases organise data into tables with predefined rows and columns. Each record is linked with a unique identifier called a primary key, which uniquely identifies that record. Examples of relational databases include MySQL, PostgreSQL, and MariaDB.
2. Hierarchical Databases
In this type of database, data is categorised based on a common point of linkage, forming a hierarchy. The child records are linked to the parent record using a field, and so the parent record is allowed multiple child records.
3. Network Databases
A network database is a hierarchical database, but with a major tweak. The child records are given the freedom to be associated with multiple parent records. As a result, a network or net of database files linked with multiple threads is observed.
4. Non-Relational Databases
This kind of database can be considered NoSQL since it may or may not follow any predefined input schema. The storage model for non-relational databases is adapted to suit the requirements of the item you intend to store. Examples of NoSQL databases include MongoDB, Cassandra, and Redis.
In addition to these, SQL Server also contains four system databases: master, model, msdb, and tempdb, each used by SQL Server for separate purposes.
How to Choose the Right SQL Database
Choosing the right SQL database depends on your specific needs, such as the size of your data, the complexity of your application, and the performance requirements. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting an SQL database:
- Data Size: Consider the size of your data and the scalability requirements. Some SQL databases, like Oracle, are designed for large-scale enterprise applications with high availability and scalability, while others, like MySQL, are more suitable for smaller applications or web applications.
- Application Complexity: Evaluate the complexity of your application and the features you require. Oracle, for example, offers robust security features and support for multiple data types, making it a good choice for complex applications.
- Performance Requirements: Consider the performance requirements of your application. SQL Server, for instance, offers in-memory data processing and advanced analytics capabilities, making it a suitable choice for applications that require high performance.
- Cost: SQL databases can be expensive, especially for enterprise-grade features. Consider your budget and the cost of licensing and maintenance for the database you choose.
- Integration: If you’re using other Microsoft products, SQL Server may be a better choice due to its integration capabilities.
Aside from the SQL database, one important factor to consider when planning your backend data management is the framework.
Frameworks such as Django, Ruby on Rails, and Spring can provide additional features and tools for effectively managing your backend data. You can learn more about it by following the link below.
Read More: Choosing the Right Software Framework: A Strategic Approach
Conclusion
SQL databases are essential tools for managing structured data in an efficient and reliable manner. Understanding the various types of SQL databases and their features allows organisations to select the best solution for your needs, ensuring robust data management and supporting business objectives.
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