What is the difference between a NoSQL database and a traditional database management system?
A NoSQL database is a database that doesn't use traditional relational database methods. NoSQL databases have different approaches to the storage of information, and often make it easier for complex or distributed systems to access database information.
Webinar: Moving Relational Databases Beyond the Traditional Register Here |
In traditional relational databases, data exists in set tables and is accessed by SQL or structured career language commands. By contrast, NoSQL databases are built in a number of different ways, for example, with key/value stores, document storage methods, graph methods, or object store methods. Some of these databases may handle structured query language as a means of retrieving data. Many of them are designed for performance, scalability, flexibility and complexity, but may lack a superior build for immediate data consistency. However, on the whole, the use of NoSQL is increasing, partly because of the use of these tools with big data and real-time Web systems.
Tags
Written by Justin Stoltzfus | Contributor, Reviewer

Justin Stoltzfus is a freelance writer for various Web and print publications. His work has appeared in online magazines including Preservation Online, a project of the National Historic Trust, and many other venues.
More Q&As from our experts
- What are the biggest uses of SQL today?
- What is the difference between little endian and big endian?
- How can unstructured data benefit your business's bottom line?
Related Terms
- NoSQL
- SQL Injection
- SQL Server
- Relational Database
- Partition
- Relational Database Management System
- Virtual Memory
- Random Access Memory
- Synthetic Backup
- SQL Server
Related Articles

Why the World Is Moving Toward NoSQL Databases

5 DBA Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs

Smart Data Management in a Post-Pandemic World

Data Quality: Why Diversity is Essential to Train AI
Tech moves fast! Stay ahead of the curve with Techopedia!
Join nearly 200,000 subscribers who receive actionable tech insights from Techopedia.
- The CIO Guide to Information Security
- Robotic Process Automation: What You Need to Know
- Data Governance Is Everyone's Business
- Key Applications for AI in the Supply Chain
- Service Mesh for Mere Mortals - Free 100+ page eBook
- Do You Need a Head of Remote?
- Web Data Collection in 2022 - Everything you need to know