NoSQL database
The general name for database types that store data in flexible structures such as documents, key-value pairs, graphs or column families instead of tables.
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Why it matters
NoSQL databases are an advantage where data has a changing structure, read-write volume is very high and horizontal scaling is needed. In return, relational databases are often a safer choice for related data and operations that need strict consistency, such as payments and stock.
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Example
An application keeps session data and cache in a fast key-value store while storing orders and invoices in a relational database; each kind of data lives where it fits.
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Common mistake
Putting all data into a schemaless structure because of its flexibility. Over time the same field gets saved in different formats and reporting and consistency problems begin.
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Related terms
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