What is Database Management System?

Before discussing Database Management System, let’s talk about the database file. What is it and how is it useful for individuals as well as large organizations?

In simple terms, a database is just a collection of data which are stored in an organized way. The data collection in a database includes schemes, tables, queries, reports, views and other objects. And the computer file which stores the database is called a database file.

Now let’s talk about Database Management System (DBMS) now. Generally, database management system aka database manager is a computer program or a collection of programs which helps users store, modify and restore information from a database. The main objective of DBMS is to interact with users, other software programs as well as the database files to store and analyse the data.

Database management systems are available in different types, i.e. ranging from personal computers to mainframe for individuals and organizational purposes respectively. DBMS is commonly used for accounting, human resources and customer support systems. Its primary function is to manage three very crucial things: the stored data, the database engine and the database schema. The database engine allows data to be accessed, locked and modified, while database schema defines the logical structure of database.

In these days, DBMS is becoming highly useful to provide amalgamation of data which can be accessed by multiple users with ease from different locations. And all the action is performed in a well-controlled manner. MySQL, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, Sybase and IBM DB2 are some popular database management systems.