| 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. |
