What is a Database?

Published on March 31, 2021

By Lyn Muldrow

Senior Developer Educator

A database is a collection of structured information organized in a way that it can be easily accessed, managed, and updated by computer programs.

Complex databases often use more formalized structures and design patterns, typically defined by a Database Management System (DBMS). There are many different types of common database management systems, some using design patterns like the Relational Model and NoSQL, with query languages like SQL.

To learn more about databases and database management, visit our comprehensive list of educational resources on Databases.

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About the authors

Lyn Muldrow

author

Senior Developer Educator

Software engineer, writer, and speaker who loves solving problems and educating the next generation.