Nowadays almost no computer or web application could function without a database management system, so it doesn't hurt to get used to the basic concepts related to this topic.
The database management system underlying any database is as fundamental as the data itself, since it would not be possible to manage the data without it.
What is a database management system:
A database management system (DBMS) or Database Management System (DBMS) is a set of programs invisible to the end user with which the information included in a database is administered and managed.
Data managers or database managers are used to manage all access to the database, since their purpose is to serve as an interface between the database, the user and the applications.
Among its functions are to allow business users to store information, modify data and access the organization's knowledge assets. Likewise, the database manager is also responsible for performing queries and analysis to generate reports.
In addition, database management systems can be understood as a collection of interrelated data, structured and organized in the ecosystem formed by this set of programs that access them and facilitate their management.
What DBMSs enable:
Simply put, the database manager controls any operation executed by the user against the DB. To perform this function, it is normal that specific tools are required, such as search and reporting systems, as well as various applications. Database managers also allow the following:
- That interactions with any managed databases can always be developed separately from the programs or applications that manage them.
- The manipulation of databases, ensuring their security, integrity and consistency.The definition of databases at different levels of abstraction.
Types of database management system
Regarding their typology, database management systems are classified according to the way in which the stored data are organized:
Based on data models:
● Hierarchical system: based on a tree schema to organize the data represented in tables (rows are composed of each record and columns of each attribute) related by correspondences.
● Network system: structure with complex relationships, since each record can be traced from different paths.
● Relational system: stores data in rows and columns forming tables connected by common keys.
● Multidimensional system: spreadsheet-like structure where data is stored as it is viewed.
● Object system: stores any type of graphical data, such as image, audio or text.
Based on the number of users:
Depends on the number of personnel required to work with the databases. Thus, the database management system can be used to allow only one user to access at a time or to support multiple users.
One of its advantages is that it is possible to be more specific with the type of user that can visualize and make movements in the database, always depending on the privacy needed by the company.
Based on its distribution:
● Centralized data management system: the management system and databases are stored and operated from a single location. Thus, information from each area and data management tool are reflected in a single platform.
● Distributed data management system: both the database and the management system are connected by a computer network even though they are in different locations.
Functions of a database manager:
A DBMS allows data to be defined, in addition to manipulating it, applying security and integrity measures, and recovering or restoring it after some kind of failure occurs. Some of the main functions of database managers are the following:
1. They contribute to the creation of more efficient and consistent databases.
2. They determine the storage structures of the system.
3. They facilitate data searches of any type and origin for business users.
4. They help to maintain the integrity of the company's information assets.
5. Introduce changes in the information, if required.
6. Simplify consultation processes.
7. Control the movements observed in the database.
Examples of DBMS
Nowadays there are database managers that comply with a model to access the database in a simpler way, with query languages that allow to generate reports, analyze, guarantee the security and integrity of the data.
1. MySQL
MySQL is a DBMS that is written in C and C++ and, in addition, is provided with a Yacc-based SQL parser with its own tokenizer (lexical scanner). In addition, the database management system is distinguished by its extensive operating system support.
2. Microsoft SQL Server
Microsoft SQL Server is a database management tool whose main query language is Transact-SQL, an implementation of the ANSI/ISO standard Structured Query Language (SQL). Some of its features are the following:
● Transaction support.
● Scalability, stability and security.
● Stored procedures support.
● Includes a powerful graphical administration environment that allows the use of DDL and DML commands graphically.
● Allows working in client-server mode, where the information and data are hosted on the server and the network terminals or clients only access the information.
Allows to manage information from other data servers.
Microsoft SQL Server is one of the leading database management systems on the market, with a wide range of software applications for business intelligence and market analytics.
3. Oracle
Oracle is a database management system used mainly by large companies so that they can control and manage a large amount of content from a single file.
This minimizes the risk of information loss and reduces costs. Among its features we can highlight the following: transaction support, stability and multiplatform support for Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, Unix and BDS.
Oracle's main features are the following:
● Access control, by using advanced technology that monitors who accesses the data.
● It is a convenient tool to use, as it is very intuitive.
● Secure management of data protection, in addition to backups.
The query data can be displayed in tables with the format of rows and columns with the materialized view.
Oracle is one of the most widely used management systems because it is extremely efficient, since it allows, among other things, eliminating redundant information, modifying data and even processing queries.
It is also possible to share stored information, which can be consulted through different applications. Another of its benefits is that its design language (PL/SQL) allows the application of "active" designs adaptable to the needs of the company at any given time.
A database management system, a must-have for a company
In summary, a database management system provides a series of services and languages for the creation, configuration and manipulation of the database, as well as backup mechanisms.
Organizations using a database management system can also store a description of these languages in a data dictionary and also ensure their maintenance, providing controlled access to it.
At Intelequia we know that data management, optimization and monitoring is a very important asset for any organization. That is why we offer you a large pool of professionals to provide you with advice and a set of managed services to ensure the security and availability of your data and information management.
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