A database is an organized collection of structured information or data, typically stored electronically in a computer system. It is usually controlled by a database management system (DBMS) . A DBMS serves as an interface between the database and its end-users or programs, allowing users to retrieve, update, and manage how the information is organized and optimized. The software also handles data storage, backup and reporting, multi-access control, and security.
Some key features of a database include:
- Data: This is the raw information that the database stores. Database administrators organize the data to make it more meaningful.
- Database software: This is used to create, edit, and maintain database files and records, enabling easier file and record creation, data entry, data editing, updating, and reporting.
- Database access language: This is the programming language that controls the database. The programming language and the DBMS must work together. One of the most common database languages is SQL.
- Database management system (DBMS): This is software used to manage data. It enables users to create and manage a database, and it also helps users create, read, update, and delete data in a database, and it assists with logging and control of data access.
In summary, a database is a collection of data that is organized and managed through a database management system (DBMS) .
