SQL stands for Structured Query Language. SQL is used to communicate with a database. According to ANSI (American National Standards Institute), it is the standard language for relational database management systems. SQL statements are used to perform tasks such as update data or retrieve data from a database. Some common relational database management systems that use SQL are: Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and Access. Most database systems use SQL, but most have their own additional proprietary extensions that are usually only used on their systems. Research SQL and answer the following:

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of SQL? Discuss and demonstrate the basic mechanisms for accessing relational databases from various types of applications. Please provide examples as part of your explanation.

PLEASE RESPOND TO CLASSMATE DISCUSSION WHETHER YOU AGREE OR NOT & A DETAILED WHY: SQL is a query language that was developed to allow access to database information using specific “queries” to allow for quick and efficient access to database information. Advantages to SQL are that it uses long established standards this is an advantage over non-SQL databases which do not have clearly defined standards. Using SQL allows easier access management of databases as you do not have to write several lines of code to extrapolate information. Another major advantage is that if you are building a web app there is a large chance that you’ll be using some sort of SQL database, and it is integrated in several types of application development. With SQL being a fast and easy way to query information this helps to improve the speed of web applications.

Some disadvantages to SQL is that it is difficult to interface without custom solutions tailored to SQL, and additionally it can be cost prohibitive. There are also some bugs in SQL that can be exploited as I learned when obtaining my Security+ certification, one of which is putting in invalid inputs – so it is important to harden any system that uses SQL to prevent invalid input and require input validation. Another disadvantage is that it gives limited control over the database, but as previously mentioned regarding cost prohibitions – can be worked around by purchasing agreements.