A database system refers to a pool of information that is logically arranged in a sequential manner. A database system may also mean a data model that encompasses a database management system (DBMS). Data is normally stored in the data structures or a database system, a database management system (DBMS), in a computer acts like a shell under which all interaction of information takes place within the various databases. DBMS may also be referred to as a software package that has computer programs that maintain the creation and use of the database (Kumar 2007).
The DBMS is a convenient model as it allows different users to access programs that ran concurrently in the same database. DBMS is compatible and can support a variety of database models like objective model or the relational model which allows it to describe and also support applications. The above-mentioned ability by DBMS allows it to conveniently support query language. This is a high-level programming language that is typically used as a simplified database language in writing of database application programs. Database language also comes in handy in database organization such as retrieving and presenting of information.
From the tutorials, one learns that the DBMS in a computer offers other important access facilities like ensuring data integrity, facilitating for concurrency control, controlling data access and transfer of data. It also aids in the recovery of data either due to a failure in the system or when restoring data through a back up file. It is important to mention that DBMS are generally categorized under different levels; these levels are determined by their data structure, for example DBMS receives request for information from any program, DBMS on its part instructs what is referred to as the operating system to relay appropriate data, but this can only happen if the data requested adheres to a certain conformity, that is, data should be under an applicable protocol. On the other hand, database servers are multiprocessors computers that have a high memory; this is complemented by a RAID disk that allows for stable storage, but in modern day DBMS relies mostly on standard operating system (Kumar 2007)
A database system is commonly used to keep track of information, such as username, phone number, login information and their various addresses. For instances, in terms of navigation approaches, all data that relates to it is placed under a single record, those that are not in use are normally omitted from the database. If the database system is under the relational approach, the data is usually normalized to form a user table.
On the other hand, over the years, open source has been in a tug of war over its ownership with different groups claiming it, but the term “open source ” has never been categorized as a trademark. Thus, over the years, its definition was recognized as a standard or what may be referred to as de facto definition. Open source software is designed computer software that is made available in a source cord form. Normally, it is designed and developed through a collaborative manner. It is the best example of an open source development and it often compares to open content and at times to user generated content (Silberschatz, 1999). Open source software normally outlines the terms of usage, redistribution and modification of open source software. This is precipitated by the need by software developers to try to get software licenses. This allows users to be granted rights, which would otherwise be held by copyright laws. There are a number of open source software that have qualified to be licensed under the definition, these include the GNU General Public License (GPL) which allows for free distribution although with a catch that any other future development of application should only be under the same license. It is prudent to mention that although the open distribution offers the source cord of a product for access by the public. Open source license gives the authors the ability to fine-tune such access. There is a need to distinguish between open source and free software movement, open source is by and large associated with the launch of internet, but the free software foundation (FSF) intended connotation “free” to mean its distribution was free, but not freedom from cost, thus being viewed as being anti-commercial, but this is not entirely true (Silberschatz.1999)
Open source software is mainly maintained through a network of voluntary programs. Some of the widely known open source products are; the internet browser Mozilla Firefox, the Apache HTTP server, and the e-commerce platform (SQL Video Series, 2010). There are other successful open source products in the market like the GNU/Linux operating system. This has seen other major players like Microsoft venture into open source with the adoption of the open document format and also the creation of other open standard that can open the XML format.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that the tutorial is an excellent one in terms of its ability to simplify the intended concept. The tutorial is easy to understand as it gives clear step to step processes that are required in various aspect of manipulating the databases. Simply put, the tutorial effectively manages to simplify what is otherwise considered complex easily and elaborately. Therefore, the tutorial is beneficial to anyone who is a starter in the course, it offers a wide array of information about how to start a database system, how to operate it, pros and cons in terms of data management, distribution, storage and upgrading. Also, the tutorial allows for a learner to gain knowledge and skill of how the different database systems and open source software facilitate redistribution of data to users. In addition, the knowledge gained allows for innovative development of software which in itself is a form of employment.
References
Kumar, P., S. (2007) Database Systems Introduction CS&E Department I I T Madras. Web.
Silberschatz. A., Korthand, H., F. and Sudarshan, S. (1999). Database system concepts: McGraw-Hill series in computer science. Michigan: McGraw-Hill,
SQL Video Series, (2011). SQL Server 2005 Express Edition for Beginners. Web.