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Databases

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May 1, 2024 Updated May 9, 2025 25 minute read

At its core, a database is an organized collection of data, typically stored electronically in a computer system. Think of it as a highly structured digital filing cabinet. However, a database is more than just a place to store information; it's managed by a sophisticated piece of software known as a Database Management System (DBMS). This system allows users and applications to interact with the data—to add new information, retrieve existing data, update it, and manage its overall organization. Together, the database, the DBMS, and any associated applications form what is often called a database system.

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Reading list

We've selected 26 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Databases.
This contemporary book dives into the challenges of building modern data systems, covering a wide range of topics including distributed systems, NoSQL databases, and data processing. It's crucial for understanding contemporary database landscapes and deepening knowledge for professionals.
This foundational textbook widely used in university computer science programs. It provides a comprehensive overview of database systems, covering models, languages, and system design. It's excellent for gaining a broad understanding and is often used as a primary reference.
For those looking to understand the inner workings of databases and distributed data systems, this book provides a detailed exploration. It's excellent for deepening understanding and exploring contemporary topics related to database implementation and performance.
This contemporary book focuses on the practical aspects of operating database systems in production, emphasizing reliability and resilience. It's highly relevant for working professionals and those interested in the operational side of databases.
Highlights common mistakes and suboptimal practices in SQL and database design, offering solutions and better approaches. It's valuable for deepening SQL knowledge and improving database programming skills.
This concise guide provides an overview of NoSQL databases, covering the different types of NoSQL databases and their use cases. It is suitable for both students and practitioners.
This practical guide provides a comprehensive overview of database security, covering the threats, vulnerabilities, and countermeasures. It is suitable for both students and practitioners.
Serves as a definitive guide to the popular MongoDB document database. It's valuable for gaining a deep understanding of a key NoSQL database and is relevant for contemporary application development. The latest edition covers recent features and practices.
A comprehensive guide specifically focused on the Cassandra NoSQL database. is useful for those interested in deepening their understanding of a specific contemporary database technology and its applications, particularly in distributed environments.
A beginner-friendly book that teaches SQL through practical examples focused on data analysis and storytelling. It's a good resource for those new to SQL and interested in its applications in data science.
This practical guide provides a step-by-step guide to installing, configuring, and using Redis, a popular in-memory data store. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced developers.
A classic and highly influential book on transaction processing in database systems. While advanced and not recently published, it's a foundational text for understanding concurrency control and recovery, crucial aspects of database internals and reliability.
While focused on Java, this book offers deep insights into optimizing database interactions from an application perspective. It's valuable for developers looking to understand how their code impacts database performance, a key contemporary issue.
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