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NoSQL has been garnering a lot of traction as one of the most widely used data management systems around. NewsWires reports that the global NoSQL market was worth $5.5 billion in 2021. It’s also predicted to go over $27.4 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 30.2% in just 5 years.
What makes NoSQL databases so beneficial to its users, and what sets it apart from its SQL database counterpart? Read on to learn more.
What Are NoSQL databases?
Although SQL and NoSQL databases are both able to organize and store unstructured data, both have their strengths and weaknesses. Relational databases function using Structured Query Language (SQL), which entails storing data in tables and columns. Contrarily, non-relational or NoSQL databases do not always rely on SQL. These databases store information in a non-tabular format.
According to a post by MongoDB, NoSQL databases can deal with anything from general purpose documents, large amounts of key-value and wide-column data, as well as analyzing and traversing graphs. And while no database type is entirely better than the other as both serve different purposes, there are several benefits to operating using NoSQL databases.
Why Opt for a NoSQL Database?
Database.com explains that the biggest pro for NoSQL databases is that it provides flexible schema and eventual consistency. Flexible schema allows for records of data on rows and columns to accommodate different fields, and eventual consistency means higher availability. Developers generally find NoSQL databases easier to work with thanks to faster queries.
Practical Applications for NoSQL Databases
NoSQL databases are commonly used for most data related to online shopping, content management, event logging, and in-depth analytical processing. NoSQL also trumps SQL when it comes to application development, according to an explainer by OpenSource. They make the most sense because web applications use data in heterogeneous formats that encompass images, audio, video, text, streaming content, signals, and many others.
Setting up a NoSQL Database
Before choosing a database management system, try to look into its available OS compatibilities. Thankfully, most of the top systems right now are designed to run NoSQL on most major operating systems like Microsoft and MacOS. Some data management systems also offer servers that cater to and run better on certain types of OS, so make sure you do your research. Then you’ll need to download its dedicated server to run your database.
When it comes to server management and upkeep, most database providers also offer tools and services that have useful features. For instance, MongoDB’s developer platform Atlas has a device sync ability that allows you to keep data up-to-date across devices. Similarly, platforms like Oracle Lite and SQLite were developed to be able to run on mobile devices specifically.
The Bright Future of NoSQL Databases
NoSQL databases have been pivotal for companies like Amazon, Google, Netflix, and Facebook in how they have handled the surge of data in the last few decades. Its future is bright, as experts foresee it to be relevant not only in applications and the IoT but also in industries such as e-commerce, finance, healthcare, and many others. That said, the best way to learn about the many benefits of NoSQL databases is to experience them yourself.
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