Comparing Popular Database Management Systems

Concept of relational database has been proposed in 1970. Since then many software companies offered their implementations of the concept. MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, MS Access, SQL Server and some others have earned their popularity in relational databases, each with unique strengths. This whitepaper exposes cons and pros of the most popular RDBMS.

MySQL. This easy-to-use database management system is an ideal choice for web applications, data-driven websites and content management systems. Features:

• Excellent speed and performance
• Suitable for database of any sizes
• Integration with all popular programming languages
• Part of the famous LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP)

Disadvantages of MySQL:

• Does not have good enough tools for debugging
• Hard to scale, does not support auto sharding
• Weak capabilities of stored procedures

PostgreSQL. This advanced open-source database management system with extensive customization is well-suited for complex corporate scale data warehousing. Features:

• User-defined functions and data types
• Full-text search
• Geospatial data (requires PostGIS extension)
• Full JSON support
• Extra capabilities can be added via extensions

Disadvantages of PostgreSQL:

• Some performance metrics are slower than other RDBSM such as MySQL
• Complicated set-up and administration routines

Oracle. This enterprise-level database management system is an ideal choice for large organizations requiring a reliable and robust database working in concurrent access environments under extremely high load. Features:

• Seamless integration with other Oracle software (Enterprise Resource Planning, Customer Relationship Management and others)
• Enhances SQL capabilities, allowing for complex program and application creation.
• Security. Oracle uses data security protocols such as data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and IP blocklists.
• Scalability. Oracle allows to scale a database up or down easily depending on user requirements.
• Efficient backup and recovery

Disadvantages of Oracle:

• Complex architecture requires deep administrative and development skills
• Expensive licenses
• Third-party and open-source support limitations

SQL Server. This database management system is most suitable for companies having their IT infrastructure built on Microsoft technologies. Features:

• Seamless integration with Microsoft software (Office 365, Exchange Server, etc)
• Easy-to-use graphical interface
• Performance. According to many benchmarks, SQL Server is highly efficient in handling complex transactions and queries.
• Powerful tools for database design and administration

Disadvantages of SQL Server:

• High cost of license, especially for large databases
• Missing Real-Time Analytics
• Native support for Windows OS only

Microsoft Access. This simple desktop-class database management system is an ideal choice for small businesses and individuals, small-scale projects and lightweight applications. Features:

• Intuitive graphical interface to design tables, indexes and relationships between tables
• Unique query builder to compose queries without extensive SQL knowledge
• Powerful development environment Visual Basic for Applications

Disadvantages of MS Access:

• Poor security system
• Database size cannot exceed 2 gigabytes
• Number of columns per table cannot exceed 255
• Weak concurrent access capabilities

SQLite. Probably, the most lightweight database management system that is ideal for mobile apps, embedded systems and projects requiring a small, self-contained database. Features:

• Lightweight and fast embedded, serverless database
• Low memory requirements
• Does not require any administration
• Interface with any programming language as a C library

Disadvantages of SQLite:

• Does not support for stored procedures and triggers
• Limited scalability
• No built-in security system

Firebird. This open-source database management system is available on all popular OS such as Windows, MacOS, Linux and other Unix platforms. Features:

• High performance and scalability
• Easy installation and administration
• Stored procedures and triggers are supported
• Each database is located in a single file

Disadvantages of Firebird:

• No official manufacturer support since this is an open-source community project
• Lack of such advanced database features as integrated replication, temporary tables, full-text search