A database is a central repository of information that records the states of the system, process parameters, and computation results. In a space analogy, it acts as the navigation center of the ship, containing maps, telemetry, and working data for all modules.
The role of the database in the architecture of a digital system
The database defines the structure for storing information, methods for accessing it, and mechanisms for processing requests. It ensures data consistency, operation sequence, and the possibility of analytical work. Relational (PostgreSQL, MySQL) and document-oriented (MongoDB) models are used, as well as hybrid solutions.
Storage architectures: structured navigation layers
The type of database chosen affects how data is stored and its interaction with other system modules:
Relational DBs — structured tables with clear relationships.
Non-relational DBs — flexible schemas for dynamic data sets.
ORM solutions (Prisma, TypeORM) — a unified layer for describing the data schema.
Each architecture is suitable for its tasks and 'orbital' usage scenarios.
Performance and request processing
Request processing for the database must be stable even under changing loads. To improve performance, indexing, query optimization, sharding, replication, and caching mechanisms (Redis) are used. These tools provide quick access to telemetry and constant data readiness for interfaces and server modules.
Reliability and data integrity
Databases ensure system resilience in the event of failures, guaranteeing information preservation. Transactions, backups, checkpoints, and distributed storage are used. This allows for maintaining data integrity in any configuration of the digital system.
Evolution of storage technologies
Modern databases are evolving towards greater scalability, automation, and adaptation to cloud ecosystems. New mechanisms for processing streaming data, distributed storage, and more flexible structure models are emerging. This expands the possibilities for building complex digital platforms and adapting to high-load scenarios.
