Distributed Database System
A distributed database is a collection of multiple interconnected databases,
which are spread physically across various locations that communicate via a
computer network
Databases in the collection are logically interrelated with each other
Often they represent a single logical database
Data is physically stored across multiple sites
Data in each site can be managed by a DBMS independent of the other sites
The processors in the sites are connected via a network
A distributed database is not a loosely connected file system
A distributed database incorporates transaction processing
A distributed database management system (DDBMS) is a centralized software
system that manages a distributed database in a manner as if it were all stored in
a single location
It is used to create, retrieve, update and delete DD
It synchronizes the database periodically and provides access mechanisms by the
virtue of which the distribution becomes transparent to the users
It ensures that the data modified at any site is universally updated
It is used in application areas where large volumes of data are processed and
accessed by numerous users simultaneously
It maintains confidentiality and data integrity of the databases
Distributed Nature of Organizational Units
Most organizations in the current times are subdivided into multiple units that are
physically distributed over the globe
Each unit requires its own set of local data
Thus, the overall database of the organization becomes distributed
Need for Sharing of Data
The multiple organizational units often need to communicate with each other
and share their data and resources
Support for OLTP
Online Transaction Processing (OLTP) work upon diversified systems which may have
common data
Database Recovery
One of the common techniques used in DDBMS is replication of data across different sites
Replication of data automatically helps in data recovery if database in any site is damaged
Support for Multiple Application Software
Most organizations use a variety of application software each with its specific database
support
DDBMS provides a uniform functionality for using the same data among different platforms
Modular Development
If the system needs to be expanded to new locations or new units, in centralized database
systems, the action requires substantial efforts and disruption in the existing functioning
However, in distributed databases, the work simply requires adding new computers and local
data to the new site and finally connecting them to the distributed system, with no
interruption in current functions
More Reliable
In case of database failures, the total system of centralized databases comes to a halt
Better Response
If data is distributed in an efficient manner, then user requests can be met from local data
itself, thus providing faster response
On the other hand, in centralized systems, all queries have to pass through the central
computer for processing, which increases the response time
Lower Communication Cost
In distributed database systems, if data is located locally where it is mostly used, then the
communication costs for data manipulation can be minimized
This is not feasible in centralized systems