A database is a systematic collection of data. It can be used to store any type of data, including numbers, words, images, files and videos. You can use software called a database management system (DBMS) to store, retrieve, and edit data. In computer systems, the word database can also refer to any DBMS, to the database system, or to an application associated with the database.

A high-performing database is crucial to any organization. Databases support the internal operations of companies and store interactions with customers and suppliers. They also hold administrative information and more specialized data, such as engineering or economic models.

Databases are an important aspect of modern applications. It’s interesting that even after so many years relational databases are still very commonly used. But with the advance of microservices purpose-built databases are being used increasingly.

Though both type of databases helps you to store important data, but they differ in functionality and optimization. Choosing a right databases solution is crucial for success of your application.

The advancement in technology has paved the way for numerous features to increase durability, availability and security of the data stored in databases.

The databases used today have evolved to scale both vertically and horizontally. They can store vast data in the cloud and provide advanced software interfaces for machine learning and other data analytics.