Database server

From ArticleWorld


A database server is a computer system or program that provides database services to other computers or computer programs. Typically, client applications access database servers over a network.

Database servers are gaining importance because of the increasing popularity of the client/server architecture model in computing. Database servers store the database on a dedicated computer system, allow it to be accessed concurrently, maintain the integrity of the data, and handle transaction support and user authorization.

A database server divides an application into a front end and a back end, in accordance with the client-server model. The front end runs on the user’s computer and displays requested data. The back end runs on the server and handles tasks such as data analysis and storage.

[edit]

Implementation of a database server

A database server can be implemented in a straightforward manner as separate node (on a network) dedicated to running database-management software. This node provides an interface to client nodes such that the same data is accessible to all nodes. The interface allows users to submit requests to the database server and retrieve information. These requests are typically made using a high-level query language such as SQL (standard query language).

The server manages the any processor-intensive work such as data manipulation, compilation, and optimization, and sends only the final results back to the client. Database servers are typically made to run on a UNIX operating system.

[edit]

Benefits of using a database server

  • A database server allows users to store data in one central location.
  • It performs complex functions such as searching, sorting, and indexing on the server itself. This reduces network traffic because fewer items need to be transferred between the client and the server.
  • Because data is stored centrally, there is enhanced security.
  • A database server uses its own processing power to find requested data, rather than sending the complete data to the client so that the client searches for the data, as is done in a file server.
  • A database server allows concurrent access to data.
Retrieved from "http://articleworld.org/index.php/Database_server"