In-memory database definition
An in-memory database (IMDB) is a type of database management system (DBMS) that stores and manages data primarily in main memory (RAM) rather than on traditional disk storage. Accessing and processing data directly in the device’s memory can vastly improve performance.
As such, in-memory databases are perfect for applications that require high-speed data processing, such as financial trading systems, real-time analytics platforms, and online transaction processing (OLTP) systems.
See also: I/O controller, netbios
Benefits of an in-memory database
- Data storage and processing. In an in-memory database, data is loaded into the system's RAM when it's accessed or queried. This results in extremely fast read and write operations as well as real-time analytics, complex queries, and transactions with minimal latency.
- Concurrency and scalability. In-memory databases can allow multiple users to access and manipulate data simultaneously without sacrificing performance. This makes them well-suited for handling large volumes of transactions or concurrent user requests.
- Reduced disk I/O overhead. Without using disk storage, in-memory databases significantly reduce disk I/O overhead, improving the performance of the entire system.
- Data protection. As RAM is temporary memory, the in-memory database must offer ways to protect against data damage or loss. This is usually achieved by regularly copying data to disk.
