Database System Architectures Lecture

These flashcards cover key concepts related to database system architectures, components, and functions based on the provided lecture notes.

What are the components of a Database System?

Database, Database Management System (DBMS), Business Logic, User Interface.

What does a Database Management System (DBMS) do?

Manages data storage, retrieval, running queries, processing transactions, backup, recovery, and security.

What is the user interface in a database application?

The interface through which users interact with the system, often involving what they type and click.

What is meant by ‘Business Logic’ in the context of databases?

The code that implements the rules of the business, also called application logic or business rules.

What is an example application that uses a database system?

BrightSpace Web Server.

What are the advantages of Mainframe architecture?

Highly secure, robust hardware, fast transaction processing performance, sharing among thousands of users.

What is a disadvantage of Mainframe architecture?

Inflexible user interface, expensive to upgrade.

What is a key pro of Stand-Alone PC architecture?

Graphical User Interface, ability to manipulate data.

What is a key con of Stand-Alone PC architecture?

Slow transaction processing, single user only, not robust or secure.

What does a File Server architecture typically include?

User interface, business logic, DBMS, and communications.

How is the data structured in a PC Client File Server?

Only data is stored on the file server; the client manages the user interface and business logic.

What are the characteristics of a Two-Tier Client/Server architecture?

Includes database server and clients that provide user interfaces and business logic.

What is a ‘Thick Client’ in the context of database architectures?

A client that contains business logic and interacts directly with the database server.

What is an example of an open database connectivity protocol?

Open DataBase Connectivity (ODBC).

Name two types of database management systems.

Relational DBMS and NoSQL DBMS.

What is a REST API?

Representational State Transfer, allowing for operations like GET, PUT, POST, and DELETE.

What types of languages are used in Web Application development?

HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and frameworks like React and AngularJS.

What is the function of SQL in database management?

Structured Query Language used to perform operations on data in a database.

What is the main advantage of Three-Tier architecture?

Separation of functions, enhancing scalability and maintainability.

What factors should be considered in Distributed Database Architecture?

Data replication and data partitioning.

What is the purpose of Data Replication in databases?

To ensure copies of data are consistent across different nodes.

What does the DB Listener do in a database system?

It monitors and manages connections to the database.

What types of operations are performed using SQL in REST?

GET corresponds to SELECT, PUT/POST corresponds to INSERT, and DELETE corresponds to DELETE.

What is an advantage of using ODBC for database connections?

Cross-platform portability by using Data Source Names (DSN).

What is included in the Client portion of the Client/Server architecture?

User interface, business logic, and client system resources.

Define a ‘Thin Client’ in database contexts.

A client that relies heavily on the database for processing business logic, using stored procedures and triggers.

What is one disadvantage of Client/Server architecture?

More complex to program and troubleshoot.

What do SQL queries return in a REST request setup?

Responses in formats like XML or JSON.

What is the role of the communications layer in database systems?

It facilitates data transfer between clients and servers.

How do web applications typically access databases?

Through web servers that process HTTP requests and send SQL queries.

What is the role of a DBMS in multi-user environments?

It manages concurrent data access and ensures data integrity.