DBaaS stands for “Database as a Service” and, is a cloud computing offering that provides customers access to a database without setting up or configuring physical hardware or software. DBaaS solution providers handle the maintenance and administrative tasks for the customers, allowing them to focus elsewhere. DBaaS comes with a subscription model that includes everything related to operating a database in the cloud, such as database provisioning, licenses, support, and maintenance. Some providers also offer usage-based pricing models. DBaaS is a viral category of Software as a Service among IT organizations, developers, and DevOps.
How does DBaaS work?
Depending on the service, DBaaS can be a managed front-end SaaS service or a component of an Infrastructure as a Service or Platform as a Service. It is installed and configured on a virtual machine. The system allows customers to access the database with an on-demand querying interface or a software system. The provider takes care of the backend infrastructure and operations. DBaaS solutions eliminate time-consuming administrative tasks for the customers, enabling them to automate one-click operations to simplify database management.
The DBaaS engine works very similarly to an on-premise database installation. They both use the same core installed in a hosted environment. The provider installs the database and configures it according to the set of parameters to suit the customers’ needs. Once the setup is completed, the provider will handle the back-end operations, including configuration management, automating backups, patches and upgrades, DR, service monitoring of the database and the infrastructure, and more. To meet the changing needs of the customers, the platform should be able to scale up database instances automatically.
Advantages and disadvantages of DBaaS?
Pros:
- DBaaS solutions eliminate the upfront cost of setting up a database.
- Like other cloud-based solutions, DBaaS can be easily scaled up or down.
- DBaaS solutions mostly include enterprise-grade security, such as encryption of data and integrated identity and access management controls.
- It eliminates a time-consuming process for SMBs, allowing them to focus elsewhere.
- DBaaS providers also offer professional support, helping organizations solve issues quickly.
Cons:
- In DBaaS, the customer doesn’t directly influence the physical safety of the servers. Since the data is stored elsewhere, it can be harder to comply with regulations.
- When the database reaches a specific size, it can be cheaper for organizations to build and run it themselves.
- It can lack customization options required for the organization.
What are the top DBaaS companies?
Various DBaaS providers include cloud giants and smaller companies focusing solely on DBaaS offerings. These companies are offering different features to be able to attract more customers. Some of them are:
- Oracle
- IBM
- Amazon
- Azure
- MongoDB
- Ninox
- SAP
- Caspio
- Kintone
- ArangoDB
- Aiven
What is Database Management?
Database management refers to all the actions to manipulate and control data to meet necessary conditions. It includes tasks like performance monitoring and tuning, storage and capacity planning, backup and recovery, data archiving, data partitioning, replication, masking, and retirement. There are various database management systems to simplify the process. The database management system also allows users to interact with the database securely and concurrently while maintaining data integrity.
What is the difference between DBaaS and Database Management?
Database management includes all the actions necessary to create and maintain a properly working database. However, DBaaS is an offering model in which a provider handles all the tasks required to set up and manage the database for the user. Thus, the most significant difference between database management and DBaaS is that the DBaaS allows organizations to allow a third party integration to handle all the database management processes while benefiting from the advantages of modern cloud computing technologies.