What is a DBMS?


DBMS stands for Database Management System. It is software for storing and recovering user data while considering appropriate security measures. It consists of a cluster of programs that operate the Database. The DBMS receives a request for data from an application and instructs the operatin system to provide the specific data. A DBMS allows users and third-party software to store and retrieve data in large systems.
DBMS allows users to construct their own databases according to their requirements. The term "DBMS" includes using a database and other application programs. It supplies an interface between the data and the software application.

Now the question arises.

What is a database?


A database is a cluster of corresponding data representing some fundamental world aspect. A database system is prepared to be built and populated with data for a particular job.

To define a DBMS:


  • We need to specify the record structure of each file by defining the different types of data elements to be stored in each form.
  • We can also use an encoding scheme to represent the values of a data item.
  • Your database will have 5 tables with a foreign key described between different tables.

Examples of database management systems


  • Oracle - Oracle can store data locally or in the cloud. It uses enterprise-scale technology to offer users a wide range of features.
  • MySQL  MySQL is a relational database management system used by platforms such as Youtube, Twitter, and Facebook. It is frequently blended with open-source content management systems (CMS).
  • SQL Server - SQL Server is a relational database management system created by Microsoft. It was based on SQL, a query language that helps users query data and manages databases.

Our Learners Also Read- 9 Popular DBMS Project Ideas Beginners Can Try Out in 2022

History of DBMS


Data is a pack of realities and figures. Data collection increased daily and needed to be stored in more secure devices or software.
Charles Bachman was the first to develop the Integrated Data Store (IDS) based on the network data model. He was awarded the Turing Award (the most prestigious award is equivalent to the Nobel Prize in computer science).

In the late 1960s, IBM (International Business Machines Corporation) developed Integrated Management Systems, the standard database system still used in many places. It was developed based on a hierarchical database model. It was in 1970 that Edgar Codd developed the relational database model. Many of the database models we use today are relational. Since then, it has been considered a standardized database model.

The relational model was still used by many people in the market. Later in the same decade (the 1980s), IBM developed Structured Query Language (SQL) as part of the R project. It has been declared the standard language for ISO and ANSI queries. Transaction management systems for transaction processing were also developed by James Gray, for which he received a Turing Award.

Also, many more models with rich features like complex queries, datatypes for embedding images, and many more. The Internet age may have influenced data models much more. Data models were developed using object-oriented programming features embedded with scripting languages such as Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) for queries. DBMS is gaining importance daily with the vast amount of data available online.

Types of DBMS


There are four sorts or kinds of DBMS:

  1. Hierarchical Databases: This type of DBMS represents a kind of parent-child relationship. This relationship forms a tree structure, where the nodes (leaves) of the tree represent records, and the fields are denoted by branches.
  2. Network Databases: This style of DBMS involves multiple partnerships where multiple user records can be linked simultaneously.
  3. Relational Database (RDBMS): This type of DBMS helps users locate and manipulate data that is conjoined to another element of data in the database. It uses tables to store data in row and column format.
  4. Object Oriented Databases: In this type of DBMS, data is stored in individual components called objects, where each is a piece of data with some instructions for the tasks that should be performed with that data.

We now have a good idea of a DBMS and its versatility for developers. DBMS software can be used differently because there are different DBMS architectures. The choice of DBMS depends entirely on the end user's goals. Choosing the suitable DBMS for the application will provide an advantage that will make the application run smoothly.

Advantages of DBMS


A DBMS was introduced to solve the real problems related to storing, managing, accessing, securing, and auditing data in standard file systems. Some are the advantages of DBMS.

Increased data security


A DBMS provides the ability to manage users and enforce policies to manage security and compliance. This controlled user access increases database security and makes data less vulnerable to security breaches.

Simple data sharing


A DBMS allows users to securely access the database regardless of their location. Thus, they can quickly handle any database-related task without needing complex access methods or worrying about database security. In addition, a DBMS allows multiple users to collaborate effectively when interacting with the database.

Data integration


A DBMS allows users to gain a centralized view of databases located in multiple locations and manage them through a single interface instead of operating them as separate entities.

Abstraction and independence


A DBMS allows users to change the physical schema of a database without changing the logical scheme that governs database relationships. As an effect, organizations can scale the underlying database infrastructure without impacting database operations.

Furthermore, any change to the logical schema can be made without affecting the applications that access the databases.

A simplified backup and restore mechanism


Most databases have built-in backup and restore tools. However, a DBMS offers centralized tools to facilitate backup and recovery functions more conveniently, thus providing a better user experience. Keeping your data secure is easier than ever with features like:
  • Automatic pictures
  • Backup scheduling
  • Backup verification
  • Numerous recovery methods

Unified management and monitoring

A DBMS delivers a single interface to perform all management and monitoring tasks, simplifying the work of database administrators. These tasks range from database creation and schema modifications to reporting and auditing.

Disadvantage of DBMS

A DBMS can offer a lot of advantages, but it has some drawbacks 


  • DBMS hardware and software costs add to your organization's budget.
  • Most database management systems are often complex, so it is necessary to train users to use the DBMS.
  • In some organizations, all data is combined into a single database, which may be corrupted due to an electrical failure, or the database is corrupted on storage media.
  • Using the same program at once by many users sometimes results in losing some data.
  • A DBMS cannot perform sophisticated calculations.

Applications of DBMS 


There are various areas where a database management system is used. Below are some of the applications that use the information base administrative framework 

Railway Reservation System 


For railway route reservations, an information base is needed to store a record or information about ticket appointments and train and flight appearances. In addition, if the trains are delayed, the individuals will get to know about it through updating the information base.

Education Sector 


Nowadays, assessments are conducted online by many schools and colleges. They handle all assessment information through a database management framework (DBMS). Despite this, the subtleties of inclusion, grades, courses, costs, participation, results, etc., are all data stored in the information base.
 

Social Media Sites 


We all use online media sites to connect with associates and convey our perspectives to the world. Every day many people follow these online media accounts like Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and Google. Client data is stored in the information base using a dataset management framework, and we are ready to connect with others.
 

Broadcast Communications 


No media transfer organization can think without a DBMS. The executive framework database is essential for these organizations to store call details and monthly invoices in the information base.
 

Online Shopping -


Nowadays, online shopping has become an influential pattern. No one needs to visit the store and burn their time. Everyone has to shop from home through online shopping sites (e.g., Amazon, Flipkart, Snapdeal). So all items are sold and added uniquely with the help of a database administration framework (DBMS). Income, installments, and purchase data are completed using DBMS.

When not to use a DBMS?


DBMS is useful. Still not suitable for the specific task below:
Not recommended unless you have the budget or expertise to run a DBMS. Excel/CSV/Flat Files could work well in such cases.