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Difference Between FBS & DBMS

The document outlines the key differences between File-Based Systems (FBS) and Database Management Systems (DBMS). FBS stores data in individual files leading to redundancy and limited access control, while DBMS centralizes data, minimizes redundancy, and offers advanced security and querying capabilities. Overall, DBMS is better suited for managing complex data with higher integrity and accessibility needs.

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25 views2 pages

Difference Between FBS & DBMS

The document outlines the key differences between File-Based Systems (FBS) and Database Management Systems (DBMS). FBS stores data in individual files leading to redundancy and limited access control, while DBMS centralizes data, minimizes redundancy, and offers advanced security and querying capabilities. Overall, DBMS is better suited for managing complex data with higher integrity and accessibility needs.

Uploaded by

mariamhassan.98.17
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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The difference between a File-Based System

& a Database Management System

The primary difference between a File-Based System (FBS) and a Database Management System (DBMS)
lies in how they store, manage, and interact with data.

Here are the main distinctions:

1. Data Storage and Organization

File-Based System: Data is stored in individual files managed by the operating system. Each application
or user has its own set of files. These files operate independently, resulting in scattered, redundant, or
inconsistent data.

Database Management System: Data is stored centrally in a structured format, typically organized into
tables within a relational database. A DBMS organizes data according to a specific model (relational,
hierarchical, or object-oriented), facilitating easier access, updates, and management.

2. Data Redundancy and Consistency

File-Based System: Having duplicate data across files is common, as each file may store the same
information for different purposes. This can lead to inconsistencies if data is modified in one file but not
in others.

Database Management System: Redundancy is minimized because data is centralized and managed in
one location. Relationships between tables help to ensure data integrity, making it easier to maintain
consistency across applications.

3. Data Access and Security

File-Based System: Access control is limited to the file system's permissions (such as read, write, and
execute). Security is managed at the file level, which can be restrictive and may lack granular access
control.

Database Management System: Offers sophisticated access control and security features, allowing
permissions to be set at multiple levels (such as table, row, and column). This ensures that only
authorized users can view or modify specific data.

4. Data Independence and Flexibility:

File-Based System: There is limited data independence. If the structure of data files changes, each user
who accesses those files may need to make significant modifications.

Database Management System: Supports data independence, allowing changes to the data structure
without requiring alterations to applications. The DBMS interface abstracts the physical data structure,
simplifying modifications and management.
5. Data Integrity and Concurrency

File-Based System: There are no built-in mechanisms for maintaining data integrity or managing
concurrent access. When multiple users access or update files simultaneously, it can lead to data
conflicts or corruption.

Database Management System: A DBMS includes built-in mechanisms to ensure data integrity, such as
primary and foreign key constraints. It also supports concurrent access and transaction management to
maintain consistency and prevent conflicts.

6. Data Querying

File-Based System: Queries must be manually created by reading and processing files, often requiring
custom code. Executing complex queries across multiple files can be difficult and time-consuming.

Database Management System: Most DBMSs utilize SQL (Structured Query Language), allowing for
complex and efficient querying across tables. Users can quickly retrieve specific data without extensive
custom coding.

In summary, while a File-Based System may satisfy simple data storage needs, a Database Management
System is a more robust solution for managing complex, interconnected data with greater security,
integrity, and accessibility requirements.

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