what is database

what is database

Generally, pieces of information are called data. In computing, data is also information but that has been translated into a form which is more convenient to manipulate or process by the computer.

A database is a collection of data or information that is organized in such a manner so that it can easily be accessed, managed, updated and retrieved. Computerized databases are much more powerful than noncomputerized databases because users can  easily search and reorganize data in hundreds of ways. As for example- the telephone index of a noncomputerized database contains names, addresses, and telephone numbers arranged alphabetically by last name so that it is easy to find information for a particular person but in computerized database, you could search by address, first name, or phone number, instead of just by last name.

Oracle, Microsoft SQL server, Sybase, DB2, DB2-UDB, Informix are the examples of commercial databases management system. MySQL, PostgreSQL, Predator are some free database management system.

How database is different from word-processors and spreadsheets?
• Word-processor- Works with text, graphics.
• Spreadsheets- Numbers, Data modeling, Statistical analysis.
• Database-Use same data for many purposes.

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