Introduction to Database - IT-DBMS211

Flashcards to review key concepts from the IT-DBMS211 Introduction to Database lecture notes.

What is a database?

A collection of related data, organized and stored electronically, that users can efficiently store, retrieve, manage, and manipulate; it also houses end-user data and metadata.

What is a Database Management System (DBMS)?

Software that intermediates between users and the database, enabling defining, constructing, manipulating, and sharing databases; a collection of programs that create and maintain a database.

Name some common examples of DBMS.

Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, and MongoDB.

List key advantages of using a DBMS.

Improved data sharing, reduced redundancy, data integrity, security, data consistency, efficient data access, and data independence.

What is a single-user database?

A database designed for personal use where concurrent access is not required; typically accessed by one user at a time (e.g., MS Access).

What is a desktop database?

A database designed to run on a single computer, not networked by default, suitable for small-scale applications (e.g., Microsoft Access, SQLite, LibreOffice Base).

What is a multiuser database?

A database designed to support multiple users accessing and manipulating data concurrently; essential for applications like ERP, e-commerce, and CRM.

What is a workgroup database?

A multi-user database that supports a small group (2–25) on a LAN, allowing concurrent access while maintaining data consistency.

What is an enterprise database?

A large-scale, high-performance database system for the complex needs of a large organization; handles large data volumes, many concurrent users, complex transactions, and strict security; acts as a single source of truth.

What is a centralized database?

A database where all data is stored and managed at a single central location, with users accessing via a network from remote locations.

What is a distributed database?

A database where data and the DBMS are spread across multiple interconnected computers or nodes, yet presented as a centralized system to users.

What is a cloud database?

A database service delivered over the internet, managed as Database-as-a-Service (DBaaS) by cloud providers like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

What is a general purpose database?

A flexible database system designed to handle a wide variety of data types and applications, not limited to a specific domain.

What is a discipline-specific database?

A specialized repository focused on a particular academic or professional field, such as Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems or OPAC/WorldCat catalogs.

What is an operational database?

A system designed to handle real-time, day-to-day transactional operations, optimized for fast read/write and data consistency (e.g., order processing, inventory, CRM).

What is an analytical database?

A specialized system designed to store and manage large volumes of historical data for business intelligence and data analysis, optimized for complex queries and reporting.

What is database design?

The process of organizing data according to a database model, determining what data must be stored, and how data elements interrelate to create a structured and efficient system.

Why is database design important?

It is the foundation of efficient, reliable, and scalable data management.

What are the steps to transform a logical design into a physical database design?

Transform entities into tables; transform attributes into columns; transform domains into data types and constraints; transform relationships into primary and foreign keys.

What issues do file systems have compared to databases?

Data redundancy and inconsistency; lack of data integration; lack of integrity and security; increased storage space due to redundancy; difficulty in getting quick reports; complex system administration.