Data Independence
Data independence can be explained using the three-schema architecture.
Data independence refers characteristic of being able to modify the schema at one level of the database system without altering the schema at the next higher level.
There are two types of data independence:
1. Logical Data Independence
- Logical data independence refers characteristic of being able to change the conceptual schema without having to change the external schema.
- Logical data independence is used to separate the external level from the conceptual view.
- If we do any changes in the conceptual view of the data, then the user view of the data would not be affected.
- Logical data independence occurs at the user interface level.
2. Physical Data Independence
- Physical data independence can be defined as the capacity to change the internal schema without having to change the conceptual schema.
- If we do any changes in the storage size of the database system server, then the Conceptual structure of the database will not be affected.
- Physical data independence is used to separate conceptual levels from the internal levels.
- Physical data independence occurs at the logical interface level.
Data independence importance in DBMS:
- Ability of improving performance
- Alterations in data structure does not requires alterations in application programs
- Implementation details can be hidden from the users
- Reduction of incongruity
- Tractability in improvement of system
- Affordable prices of maintaining system
- Providing the best services to the users
- Permit users to focus on general structure
- Enforcement of standards
- Improvement of security
- The state of being undamaged or undivided can be improved
