Difference between SQL and NoSQL DatabasesSQL (Structured Query Language) databases need no introduction. These are the de factor in database management, and most of the people in IT field are already familiar with SQL. Famous examples are ORACLE and MySQL databases. However, over the last few years, a new DBMS (Database Management System) has started gaining traction. The NoSQL database. In this article, we shall shed light upon the differences in between these two and in which circumstances are each of these used. Here is a list of differences amongst the two:Structure of dataSQL Database has a relational structure, which means it uses relations, also known as tables to store various amounts of data. On the other hand, NoSQL can allow free-flow operations to store data. Unlike SQL, NoSQL does not need relations or schemas. Moreover, NoSQL have dynamic schemas whereas SQL has predefined schemas for storing data.ScalabilitySQL database is vertically scalable, whereas NoSQL is horizontally scalabe. In layman terms, it means that SQL databases require additional powerful hardware to increase its power, whereas NoSQL requires additional serversQuerying LanguageSQL is queried using the Structured Query Language (SQL), whereas NoSQL has different means to query the data having an unstructured query language.Data reliability and safetyDue to the widespread usage of SQL in modern applications, security is one of the main concerns of developers and users. SQL, is hence still considered better option than NoSQL when it comes to data safety and reliability.Customer supportIf you ever encounter a problem with SQL, there are both free and paid versions of support that you can get from an active community of SQL developers and users due to the decades long history of this DBMS. If you need support for NoSQL, you may find it very hard due to the limited material available.Complex data querying requirementsSQL has been developed and improved over time, whereas NoSQL is just a new player in the field. Mostly, it is the relational databases (SQL) that have been setup and deployed for managing and storing data. There is still a very long way for NoSQL to go.
