Relational database refers to a database that uses a relational model to organize data, which stores data in the form of rows and columns for users to understand. A series of rows and columns in a relational database are called tables, and a group of tables make up the database. The user retrieves the data in the database through a query, which is an execution code that defines certain areas of the database. The relational model can be simply understood as a two-dimensional table model, and a relational database is a data organization composed of two-dimensional tables and their relationships.
Traditionally, databases have been proprietary tools provided by Oracle, IBM, Microsoft, and a number of other smaller vendors. Over recent years though, and especially for new projects, open source databases and database management tools have steadily grown in maturity and importance. In many cases, open-source database software includes both database software, and the database management tools needed to support the database.
As open source relational database become adopted by more and more companies for large-scale enterprise projects, there has been a concomitant rise in the availability of skilled DBAs, with extensive knowledge of these platforms to be able to assist with mission-critical deployments.
In addition to the obvious cost savings, open source database software have largely reached feature parity with their proprietary cousins. The open-source model also allows for heavy customization and community development, which makes the software very flexible compared to proprietary database software. Training materials are also often provided for free by user communities.
Some of the most common features provided by open-source database software include:
Relational and Nonrelational Databases
Support for Multiple Platforms
Supports databases and database management
Data Security
Data Collaboration
All open-source database software options are available for free to businesses that can support them independently. That said, a number of open-source database options offer paid support, hosting, or monitoring. Pricing depends highly on which features are needed by the organization.