Main characteristics of database approach and contrast it with file based approach?

Database Approach:
1. Data is stored in a structured format using tables, rows, and columns.
2. Data is organized and managed efficiently using a database management system (DBMS).
3. Data is stored centrally in a single location, making it easier to access and update.
4. Data integrity and consistency are maintained through the use of constraints and relationships.
5. Data can be queried and manipulated using SQL (Structured Query Language).
6. Security and access control can be implemented to restrict unauthorized access to data.

File-Based Approach:
1. Data is stored in individual files or documents, often in an unstructured format.
2. Data is managed manually by the user, without the use of a DBMS.
3. Data is stored in multiple locations, making it difficult to access and update consistently.
4. Data integrity and consistency are not guaranteed, as there are no constraints or relationships enforced.
5. Data manipulation is limited to basic file operations such as reading, writing, and deleting.
6. Security measures are limited and may not be as robust as those provided by a DBMS.

Contrast:
1. Organization: Database approach organizes data in a structured format using tables, while file-based approach stores data in individual files.
2. Management: Database approach uses a DBMS to efficiently manage data, while file-based approach requires manual management by the user.
3. Data Integrity: Database approach ensures data integrity and consistency through constraints and relationships, while file-based approach does not guarantee data integrity.
4. Access and Security: Database approach provides centralized access to data and robust security measures, while file-based approach stores data in multiple locations and may have limited security measures.

Database Approach

- Data independence: The data is stored separately from the applications that use it, making it easier to change the data or the applications without affecting the other.
- Data integrity: The database management system (DBMS) enforces rules that ensure the data is accurate and consistent.
- Data security: The DBMS provides security features to protect the data from unauthorized access.
- Data sharing: Multiple users can access the same data at the same time, making it easier to collaborate on projects.
- Data backup and recovery: The DBMS provides features to back up the data and recover it in the event of a system failure.

File-Based Approach

- Data dependence: The data is stored in files that are directly accessed by the applications that use it. If the data or the applications change, it can be difficult to maintain the integrity of the data.
- Data integrity: There is no built-in mechanism to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the data.
- Data security: There is no built-in mechanism to protect the data from unauthorized access.
- Data sharing: It is difficult to share data between multiple applications because each application has its own way of accessing the data.
- Data backup and recovery: It is the responsibility of the applications to back up the data and recover it in the event of a system failure.

Contrast

| Feature | Database Approach | File-Based Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Data independence | Yes | No |
| Data integrity | Yes | No |
| Data security | Yes | No |
| Data sharing | Yes | No |
| Data backup and recovery | Yes | No |
| Ease of use | Easier | Harder |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |