Database Architecture

Start with the architecture levels

The mind map on three-schema architecture introduces the internal and conceptual levels. It describes the internal level in terms of physical storage and the conceptual level in terms of the structure of the whole database for a community of users. Start here for an overview of how the levels differ.

Next, use Three-level ANSI SPARC architecture, a flashcard deck with questions about the external, conceptual and internal levels. It also asks about the objective of the architecture and the meaning of a database schema. The Databases flashcards offer another view of the levels, including the external level as a user's view of the database.

Explore client-server databases

The client-server database mind map asks what a client-server system is and considers its advantages and issues with concurrent access. It includes record locks, serialisation, timestamp ordering and commitment ordering as ways to consider database integrity.

The client-server flashcards also cover these terms and describe clients accessing a database on a remote server simultaneously. They include the lost update problem. After looking at the mind map, use the flashcards to check whether you can explain the terms without looking at the map.

Use the quiz alongside the maps

The quiz on database server architecture includes a question about an advantage of that architecture. Try it after studying the client-server map, then return to the map and flashcards to compare the ideas you encountered. You can also use the mind map on database architecture to explore the separation between application programs and data and the handling of multiple user views.

These resources offer a focused way into the Database Concepts and DBMS Fundamentals unit in Databases and data science. They let you study architecture through questions, descriptions and diagrams within that unit. Choose a map, then try the related flashcards or quiz.