Understanding Postgres

In today's lecture, Harkirat introduces the PostgreSQL database, beginning with an overview of different database types and the limitations of NoSQL databases. The discussion then pivots to the necessity of SQL databases, highlighting their advantages in certain scenarios.

We further look into the process of creating our first PostgreSQL database, exploring how to interact with it and the various operations that can be executed. This provides a solid foundation for understanding the principles of relational database management systems.

What We'll Learn Today

• Simple Topics:
  • SQL vs NoSQL: Understanding the differences between structured SQL databases and flexible NoSQL databases.
  • Creating Postgres Databases: Learning how to set up and configure PostgreSQL databases.
  • CRUD Operations: Performing Create, Read, Update, and Delete operations on database records.

Types of Databases

Databases are an essential component of many applications, serving as the backbone for data storage and retrieval. There are several types of databases, each designed to serve specific use cases and data management needs. Below is an elaboration on the types of databases:

NoSQL Databases

• Definition: NoSQL databases are designed to store, retrieve, and manage large volumes of unstructured or semi-structured data. They are known for their flexibility, scalability, and high performance.
• Schema-less: Unlike SQL databases, NoSQL databases do not require a predefined schema, allowing for the storage of data in various formats.
• Use Cases: Ideal for big data applications, real-time web apps, and for handling large volumes of data that may not fit neatly into a relational model.
• Examples: MongoDB, Cassandra, Redis, Couchbase.