A
database server manages and stores the database within
a computer system. The database server is often referred
to as the back-end of the computer system and interfaces
with the application server (middleware) which links
to the front-end graphical user interface.
Database
Server -- Single or Cluster
A database server can be integrated with a web and
application server on a single physical server or
it can be part of a complex cluster. A database server
is typically part of a cluster for high volume or
complex transaction applications. Within a cluster
a database server would be on its own physical server
and there may be more than one database server to
provide redundancy. Likewise, there would be unique
and multiple web servers and application servers within
the cluster.
Database
Server Software
There are several software programs that
are used on a database server. The most popular are
Oracle and some version of SQL, such as MySQL, MS
SQL, or PostrgreSQL. All these programs allow a database
server to function in a client/server environment
as a distributed database.
Critical
Database Server Issues
It is critical for a database server to be properly
configured if it is to be easily scalable, maintained,
and backed-up. To achieve this it is best to use engineers
that are familiar with the requirements of the database
program on your database server. These engineers could
be internal IT resources, a hosting provider with
database expertise, or a remote database server management
company.
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Database
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