Differences between centralized and distributed databases
A database is a grouping of related data. Many businesses utilize databases to store, manage, and retrieve data quickly. There are two types of databases which are classified as centralized and distributed.
Centralized database
A centralized database is primarily a database that is stored, managed, and maintained in a single location. This sort of database is changed and controlled from the exact location. As a result, this site is primarily a centralized computer system. An internet connection is required to reach the centralized location (LAN, WAN, etc.). Institutions or organizations are the primary users of this unified database.
As all data is in a single area, retrieving and coordinating information is simpler along with little data redundancy. It is less expensive than any other databases accessible. However, the entire data set gets destroyed if a system breakdown happens in the centralized system.
Distributed database
A distributed database comprises numerous databases that are linked together and scattered over different physical locations. The data stored in these places is maintained independently of one another. A computer network communicates across databases at various physical locations.
The distributed database can be enlarged because the data is scattered over several physical places and is easily accessible from several networks. It is more secure than a centralized database but more costly and challenging to manage. Moreover, this database is scattered over several physical locations, so it isn't easy to give a consistent picture to consumers.
Differences
Here are some key differences between the two databases.
Centralized | Distributed |
In the event of several users, the data access time is longer in a centralized database. | In the event of several users, the data access time in a distributed database is reduced. |
Because the complete database is present in the same area, management, change, and backup is simplified. | Because this database is dispersed over several physical locations, management, updating, and backup are highly complex. |
This database offers the user a consistent and comprehensive picture. | To deliver a consistent perspective to the user is challenging because it is dispersed over several sites. |
In comparison to a distributed database, this database provides more data consistency and a faster response time. | This database may contain some data replications, resulting in reduced data consistency and a slower response time. |
A centralized database is less efficient since data retrieval becomes more difficult due to the storage of data and information in a single location. | It is more efficient than a centralized database since data is split up in several locations, making data retrieval straightforward and time-consuming. |
