What is an Embedded Database?

The world has moved on to a digital era where data plays a significant role in making informed decisions. Businesses and enterprises use computer systems to store, process and manage essential data collected from various sources. The traditional approach was to have a centralized database that received requests from various computer systems. Therefore, all data queries were directed to the central server for processing. However, the centralized server model is no longer viable. Today’s digital systems rely on embedded databases for faster data processing, improved data management and enhanced data security.
An embedded database is an integrated database system designed to operate within a specific software or appliance. It is a software component, which consists of a database management system as well as storage and retrieval capabilities. It can be connected to various embedded applications such as mobile phones, cameras, web browsers, cars, and other smart devices.
Embedded databases are implemented within software applications to store and manipulate data within the application workflow. The system runs locally on the device or operating system without relying on a centralized server. Therefore, it improves the performance, scalability and availability of applications compared to the traditional client-server model.
Embedded databases are also built with security in mind since the system runs independently of a centralized server, making it challenging for unauthorized access. Also, the data is encrypted and secured in a way that makes it hard for malicious attacks or data breaches.
The need for embedded databases has increased as the internet of things (IoT) has continued to grow. IoT devices require data processing, storage and management capabilities that are fast and efficient, and this is possible through embedded databases. These databases allow the collection of various data types such as text, audio, video, image and other multimedia formats.
In conclusion, an embedded database is a software component that runs within an application or device, providing storage, retrieval and manipulation capabilities. It is more efficient, faster and more secure compared to the traditional client-server model, and it is becoming essential in today’s digital world. With the growth of IoT devices and increasing demand for data processing, embedded databases provide the vital data infrastructure to meet the changing needs of digital innovation.