The Fundamental Differences Between File System and DBMS
Every business organization relies heavily on data management to ensure the success of its operations. As such, there has been a continuous evolution of various data management systems over the years. Two such systems are the File System and Database Management System (DBMS). While they may appear to serve similar purposes, a closer look will reveal fundamental differences between the two.
Definition and Functionality
File system is the method of storing, organizing, and retrieving data on a computer. It is a hierarchical structure of folders and files that allow users to store their data in an organized manner. A file system functions by allowing users to store data in a physical location on the computer’s hard drive.
On the other hand, a DBMS is a software application that manages and facilitates data storage, access, retrieval, and data manipulation. It enables the creation of a database, input of data, storage, retrieval, and management of the database through coding and programming.
Data Handling and Management
In a file system, the data is grouped and organized according to its format, and users manipulate data through direct access. Users can create, delete or modify data within files directly as per their requirements, but this can result in issues such as inconsistent data, data redundancy, and improper data organization.
In contrast, a DBMS provides a more structured environment and handles data in a more organized and comprehensive manner. Users access data through specific queries that filter out the records of interest from one or more databases. A DBMS ensures normalized data, referential integrity, and standardized data organization throughout the system.
Security and Backup
File systems are susceptible to data loss through physical hardware damage, accidental deletion, or theft. Retrieval of lost data can be time-consuming, and there’s always the possibility of an incomplete or corrupted file recovery. Backup creation and restoration can also prove to be a difficult and time-consuming process.
DBMS, on the other hand, has more robust security and backup features. Measures such as data replication and backup of database backups can ensure proper data availability and the ultimate failure and disaster recovery.
Scalability and Performance
File systems are adequate for small-scale data storage, and data retrieval operations are relatively fast. However, handling large-scale data operations and working with data from multiple sources can be troublesome.
Data management and performance are the primary advantages of DBMS. DBMS allows creating complex complex queries and filtering out specific information with the highest speed and accuracy.
In conclusion, while file systems can be useful in small-scale data management, the vast and complex necessitates the use of an efficient DBMS system. As businesses adapt to new data management needs and growth, scaling a file system becomes more challenging, and a DBMS is the way to go.
Table difference between file system and dbms
| Attribute | File System | DBMS |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | Stores and organizes data in files and directories on a physical device | Stores and organizes data in tables with relationships and constraints in a database |
| Accessibility | Typically accessed through file paths and direct file manipulation | Accessed through a programming language or query language using database connections or API calls |
| Scalability | Scaling is difficult and may require redesign or additional hardware | Scaling is easier and can often be accomplished through hardware upgrades or distribution of data across multiple servers |
| Data Integrity | Relies on individual file and directory permissions and access controls, which can be difficult to manage and enforce | Enforces data integrity through relationships and constraints between tables, and also provides user and role-based access controls |
| Concurrency | May have limited support for concurrent access to files or directories, which can lead to issues with data consistency | Provides robust support for concurrent access to data, including locking mechanisms and transaction management |