Databases evolved from simple flat files to structured relational databases , improving data organization. Later, NoSQL databases emerged, offering flexibility for diverse data types and large volumes. This evolution caters to the increasing complexity and diversity of data storage needs. Evolution of Database Systems: 1. File Systems: Early systems used file-based approaches to store and manage data. Data redundancy and inconsistency were common issues. Lack of data integrity and centralized control. 2. Hierarchical Databases: Introduced a hierarchical structure to organize data. Relationships represented as parent-child links. Improved data organization but still lacked flexibility. 3 . Network Databases: Enhanced flexibility with a network model. Introduced the concept of records and sets. Complex relationships were possible, but navigation was challenging....
A database management system (DBMS) is a software suite that facilitates the creation, organization, retrieval, and management of data. Some of its key characteristics include: 1. Data Integrity : DBMS ensures the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data through various mechanisms like constraints, validations, and data types. 2. Data Security : It provides mechanisms to control access to data, ensuring that only authorized users can view or modify it. This includes user authentication, authorization, and encryption. 3. Data Independence : DBMS separates the data from the applications that use it, allowing changes to the database structure without affecting the applications. This includes both logical and physical data independence. 4. Concurrent Access and Transaction Management : DBMS allows multiple users to access the database simultaneously while ensuring data integrity through concurrency control mechanisms. It also supports transactions, which are...