The Digital Research Initiative
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What is a database? What is SQL?

  • A database is a program that stores information and allows users to interact with this information. A good database allows for very fast and reliable searching and updating of information.
  • A database is typically used by CGI programs to store their information. For example, Yahoo! uses a large database to store their Web directory, and Home Depot uses a database to store their online catalog.
  • Databases typically store information in tables.
  • Databae programs include: Oracle, Microsoft Access and MySQL
  • SQL is an english-based language that is used to interact with a databse. It is designed to be easy to understand and simple to use. Most modern (i.e. post-1995) databases use SQL as the main way to interact with users and programs.

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eric
This site was created especially for students of the UNC School of Journalism's
JOMC 050 Class, and anyone else who may be interested.
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