Data
Numeric, textual, visual, or
audio information that
describes real-world
systems. It is collected and
processed to aid in a variety
of tasks.
Analog Data
Most common before
computers. Audio was
recorded as vibrations
impressed on vinyl disks.
Digital Data
Most common today.
Encoded as 0s and 1s on
electronic magnetic data.
Database
A collection of data in
structured format. In
principle, can be stored on
paper or even clay tablets.
Software that reads and Database System (DBMS)
writes in a database.
Query
A request to retrieve or
change data in a database.
Typically inserts new data,
retrieves data, updates, data,
or deletes data from a
database.
Query Language
Specialized programming
language designed
specifically for database
systems. Reads and writes
data efficiently.
Database Application
Software that HELPS
business users interact with
database systems.
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, Data Management - Foundations - D426 WGU Questions and Answers
Database Administrator
What role am I?
Responsible for securing the
database system against
unauthorized users. They
enforce procedures for user
access and database system
availability.
Database Designer
What role am I?
Determines the format of
each data element AND the
overall database
STRUCTURE. Must balance
priorities like including
storage, response time, and
support for rules that govern
the data.
Database Programmer
What role am I?
Develop programs that
utilize a database and write
applications that combine
query languages and general
purpose programming
language.
Database User
What role am I?
A consumer of data in a
database. They request,
update, or use stored data to
generate reports or
information.
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, Data Management - Foundations - D426 WGU Questions and Answers
Transaction
A group of queries that
MUST be completed or
rejected as a whole.
Architecture
Describes the internal
components AND the
relationships between
components.
Query Processor
Interprets queries, creates a
plan to modify the database
or retrieve the data, and
returns query results to the
application. Performs query
optimization.
Query Optimization
Ensures efficient instructions
are executed on the data
from the Query Processor.
Storage Manager
Translates the query
processor instructions into
low-level file-system
commands that modify OR
retrieve data. Uses indexes to
quickly locate data.
Transaction Manager
Ensures transactions are
properly executed. Prevents
conflicts between concurrent
transactions. Also restores
the database to a consistent
state in the event of a failure.
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