Disk-Based Database
A disk-based database is a type of database management system that stores data primarily on persistent storage devices like hard disk drives (HDDs) or solid-state drives (SSDs), rather than in main memory (RAM). It is designed to handle large datasets that exceed available memory capacity, with data read from and written to disk as needed during operations. This approach prioritizes durability and cost-effectiveness for long-term data storage, making it suitable for applications where data persistence is critical.
Developers should use disk-based databases when building applications that require storing and managing large volumes of data that must persist beyond system restarts, such as enterprise systems, e-commerce platforms, or content management systems. They are ideal for scenarios where data durability and cost-efficient storage are priorities, even if it means slower access speeds compared to in-memory databases. For example, in financial or healthcare applications where historical records need to be retained reliably, disk-based databases provide a robust solution.