Types of Database System

Centralized vs Distributed Database

Centralized Database System

In a centralized database system, database is stored and maintained in a single central location. It works on the basis of client-server technology.

Advantages:

1. Simple to implement and manage.
2. Less or no risk of data loss.
3. Data redundancy is minimized.
4. Suitable for small organization with limited data and users.

Disadvantages:

1. Failure of the server can completely turn down the whole computer system.
2. Performance and service degrades as number of users increases.
3. Not reliable as a distributed database.
4. Not appropriate for big organization, which have a large number of users and computers.

Distributed Database System

In a distributed database system, a database is stored on several computers, and databases are located at different places. It facilitates easy access of data from any location and needs more computer resources.

Advantages:

1. Failure of a site doesn’t affect the whole computer system.
2. Much reliable as compared to the centralized database system.
3. Suitable for big organizations with a large amount of data, database users and computers.

Disadvantages:

1. Complex to implement and manage.
2. High risk of data theft, hacking, etc.
3. High cost of implementation and operation.

Difference Between: