Distributed database advantages There are a number of advantages to using a distributed DBMS. These include the following: Capacity and incremental growth Reliability and availability Efficiency and flexibility Sharing Capacity and growth An advantage of distributed databases is that as the organisation grows, new sites can be added with little or no upheaval to the DBMS. Compare this to the situation in a centralised system, where growth entails upgrading with changes in hardware and software that effect the entire database. Reliability and availability An advantage of distributed databases is that even when a portion of a system (i.e. A local site) is down, the overall system remains available. With replicated data, the failure of one site still allows access to the replicated copy of the data from another site. The remaining sites continue to function. The greater accessibility enhances the reliability of the system. Efficiency and flexibility An advantage of distributed databases is that data is physically stored close to the anticipated point of use. Hence if usage patterns change then data can be dynamically moved or replicated to where it is most needed. Distributed database sharing An advantage of distributed databases is that users at a given site are able to access data stored at other sites and at the same time retain control over the data at their own site. Women's Polytechnique College Siddhi,Mayuree,Deepshikha
