Which type of NoSQL database is closest to a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS)?

Which type of NoSQL database is closest to a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS)?

• A. Document databases
• B. Key-value databases
• C. Graph databases
• D. Column-oriented databases

Answer: (D)

Column-oriented databases are the closest to a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) because they store data in a format that is similar to tables in relational databases. In an RDBMS, data is organized into rows and columns, where each row represents a record and each column represents a field. Column-oriented databases adopt a similar approach by organizing data into columns, allowing for optimized querying and data retrieval, particularly for aggregating and analytical queries. Moreover, column-oriented databases provide features such as schema definition and structure, making them easier to understand for those who are already familiar with the relational model. They support SQL-like query languages, which makes it easier for users with an RDBMS background to adapt to these systems. In contrast, document databases organize data into documents that can contain nested structures, which can differ significantly from the flat table structure of RDBMS. Key-value databases focus on simple key-value pairs without a fixed schema, which is quite different from the relational model. Graph databases center on relationships and nodes, emphasizing connections between data instead of adhering to a structured table format.

Column-oriented databases are the closest to a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) because they store data in a format that is similar to tables in relational databases. In an RDBMS, data is organized into rows and columns, where each row represents a record and each column represents a field. Column-oriented databases adopt a similar approach by organizing data into columns, allowing for optimized querying and data retrieval, particularly for aggregating and analytical queries.

Moreover, column-oriented databases provide features such as schema definition and structure, making them easier to understand for those who are already familiar with the relational model. They support SQL-like query languages, which makes it easier for users with an RDBMS background to adapt to these systems.

In contrast, document databases organize data into documents that can contain nested structures, which can differ significantly from the flat table structure of RDBMS. Key-value databases focus on simple key-value pairs without a fixed schema, which is quite different from the relational model. Graph databases center on relationships and nodes, emphasizing connections between data instead of adhering to a structured table format.