Database

~By Daksh Gread X-D

What is a Database?
A database is an organized collection of structured information, or
data, typically stored electronically in a computer system. A database
is usually controlled by a database management system (DBMS). A
database management system is system software for creating and
managing databases. A DBMS makes it possible for end users to
create, protect, read, update and delete data in a database.
Evolution of Database:

In the 1960s, computerized databases

emerged as a cost-effective option for private
organizations. Two popular data models were
CODASYL and IMS, with the SABRE
system being a commercial success. In the
1970s, E.F. Codd the relational database,
which disconnected the database's schema
from physical information storage. Two major
relational database system prototypes were
created between 1974 and 1977: Ingres and
System R. Ingres used QUEL, leading to the development of
systems like Ingres Corp., MS SQL Server, Sybase, Wang’s PACE,
and Britton-Lee. System R used SEQUEL, contributing to the
development of SQL/DS, DB2, Allbase, Oracle, and Non-Stop SQL.
In 1976, Entity-Relationship (ER) was proposed, allowing designers
to focus on data application instead of logical table structure. In the
1980s, Structured Query Language (SQL) became the standard
query language. The rapid increase in computer sales boosted the
database market, leading to the development of new database
companies and products like PARADOX, RBASE 5000, RIM,
Dbase III and IV, OS/2 Database Manager, and Watcom SQL. The
1990s saw a broader culture shift, with the advent of the Internet
leading to exponential growth in the database industry. Desktop
users began using client-server database systems to access computer
systems with legacy data. Increased investment in online businesses
resulted in a rise in demand for Internet database connectors, and the
use of CGI, GCC, MySQL, Apache, and other systems brought
open-source solutions to the Internet. Since the 1980s, SQL has been
the standard query language, but in 1998, Carlo Strozzi coined the
term "NoSQL" for his database, Strozzi NoSQL. Since then, NoSQL
has remained popular, with numerous databases available. Despite a
decline in the early 2000s, database applications continued to grow,
with Microsoft, IBM, and Oracle being the leading companies.
Today, databases are used in various services, with new players
offering specific solutions. Quick-base, an online database platform,
enables users to create custom business applications using relational
databases.
Advantages of a Database:
Database management systems (DBMS) offer several advantages,
including enhanced data security, data integration, data abstraction,
data redundancy reduction, data sharing, data consistency and
accuracy, data organization, efficient data access and retrieval, and
concurrent access to multiple users. DBMS provides a well-managed
and synchronized form of data, making data handling easy and

providing an integrated view of an organization's operations. Data

abstraction allows users to access an abstract view of the data,
allowing them to interact with the system through complex
algorithms. DBMS also reduces data redundancy by preventing the
input of duplicate items in a structured database. Data sharing across
multiple applications and users increases productivity and
collaboration. Data consistency and accuracy are ensured by
enforcing data integrity constraints and preventing data duplication.
DBMS also offers a systematic approach to organizing data, making
it easier to retrieve and manage efficiently. Efficient data access and
retrieval are achieved through indexing and query optimization
techniques, reducing processing time and increasing system
performance. Concurrency and maintained atomicity are maintained
by allowing concurrent access to multiple users through
synchronization techniques. Lastly, DBMS is highly scalable,
accommodating changes in data volumes and user requirements. It
allows for flexibility in data storage, retrieval, and manipulation,
allowing users to modify the structure and content of the database as
needed.
Applications of Database in real life:
1.Social Media: Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram,
and Twitter use databases to manage user-generated content and
facilitate interactions. These databases store user profiles, posts,
comments, and other data, enabling efficient retrieval and
presentation of personalized feeds, notifications, and search results.
They support complex
algorithms for content
relevance and user
recommendations. Online
banking systems use databases
to securely store and manage
consumer financial data,
ensuring data integrity and
security through access control
systems and encryption
techniques. They also handle
complex queries and
transactions, providing real-
time access to functions like fund transfers and bill payments
2.e-Commerce:
e Commerce websites rely on databases to manage vast amounts of
data generated by online shopping platforms. These databases store
product information, inventory
levels, and customer-related
data, enabling seamless
checkout processes and
personalized experiences. They
support functions like order
management, tracking, and
business analysis. Woo-
commerce, a popular
WordPress plugin, integrates
with the WordPress ecosystem using MySQL, providing data storage
and retrieval capabilities. This efficient data organization optimizes
operations, optimizes inventory management, and personalizes user
experiences, supporting the success of online retail businesses.
3.Healthcare Information Systems:
Healthcare information systems, such as Electronic Health Records
(EHR), rely on databases to manage and store vast patient data.
These databases enable real-time access and update of patient
information, supporting clinical
decision-making and identifying
patterns for research and
population health management.
Privacy and security are crucial,
and databases play a vital role in
implementing robust access
controls and encryption measures.
MediCare Plus, the US's primary
healthcare system, uses No-SQL, a cloud database, and custom
database solutions.