What is a Database: Basic Concepts and Areas of Use

With the digitalization of the modern world, effective storage and management of data has become important. So, "what does database mean" and in which areas is it used?

What is Database?

Database, in Turkish, is a collection of data organized in a certain order. This data is stored and managed for use in various areas. Databases facilitate data access, data updating and data management. A database is used to store structured data, and this data is usually organized in a table form.

Database Types and Features

Databases are divided into various types according to different needs and usage scenarios. Here are the most common types of databases:

• Relational Databases (RDBMS): Data is organized in tables and relationships between tables are defined. Example: MySQL, PostgreSQL.
• NoSQL Databases: Unlike relational databases, data is stored in a flexible structure. Ideal for big data and real-time applications. Example: MongoDB, Cassandra.
• Graph Databases: Data is represented in a graph form using nodes and edges. Example: Neo4j.
• Document-Oriented Databases: Data is stored as documents in JSON or BSON format. Example: MongoDB.
• Hierarchical Databases: Data is organized in a tree structure and each data element is connected to a parent element. Example: IBM Information Management System (IMS).

What is Database Management Systems (DBMS)?

Database Management Systems (DBMS) are software used to create, manage databases, and perform operations on data. DBMS ensures data integrity, increases data security, and facilitates data access. The most popular DBMS software include Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, and PostgreSQL.

Database Design and Modeling

Database design is the process of determining how data will be organized and stored. A good database design increases data integrity and performance.

Database modeling is a process that defines the structure and relationships of the database. Data modeling tools and techniques are used in this process. The most common data modeling techniques are:

• ER Diagrams (Entity-Relationship): Entities and the relationships between them are visualized.
• Normalization: The database is structured to reduce data redundancy and anomalies in the database.
• Dimensional Modeling: Data is divided into two main categories: dimensions and facts. It is used especially in data warehouses.

Areas of Use of Databases

Databases have a wide range of uses in various sectors. Here are some common areas of use:

• Finance and Banking: Customer information, transaction history, and account details are stored.
• E-commerce: Product inventory, order information, and customer data are managed.
• Healthcare: Patient records, treatment history, and health reports are stored.
• Education: Student information, course schedules, and notes are stored.
• Telecommunications: Subscriber information, call records, and data usage details are stored.

Database Security and Management

Database security protects data from threats such as unauthorized access, modification, or deletion. Database management covers the operations performed to ensure that data is stored and accessed effectively.

Here are some methods used for database security:

• User Authorization: Determines who can access which data.
• Encryption: Encryption methods are used to store and transmit data securely.
• Backup and Recovery: Regular backups are made so that the database can be restored in the event of possible data loss.
• Update and Patch Management: Regular updates are made to close security gaps in the database software.

Frequently Asked Questions

A database is a collection of data organized and stored in a certain order. It allows data to be managed effectively.

What are the types of databases?

The most common database types include relational databases (RDBMS), NoSQL databases, graph databases, document-based databases, and hierarchical databases.

What is DBMS?

DBMS is the abbreviation of Database Management Systems. They are software used to create, manage, and process databases.

What is database design?

Database design is the process that determines how data will be organized and stored. Good design increases data integrity and performance.

What are the areas of use of databases?

Databases are used in various sectors such as finance and banking, e-commerce, healthcare, education and telecommunications.

How is database security ensured?

Database security is provided by methods such as user authorization, encryption, backup and recovery, update and patch management.