[Tutor] File vs. Database (possible off topic)

[Ken G.]

On 11/22/2011 08:13 AM, Steven D'Aprano wrote:
> Ken G. wrote:
>> It occurred to me last week while reviewing the files I made in using 
>> Python, it could be somewhat similar to a database.
>>
>> What would be a different between a Python files and Python 
>> databases?  Granted, the access in creating them are different, I 
>> really don't see any different in the format of a file and a database.
>
> A database is essentially a powerful managed service built on top of 
> one or more files. There's nothing you can do with a database that you 
> can't do with a big set of (say) Windows-style INI files and a whole 
> lot of code to manage them. A database does all the management for 
> you, handling all the complexity, data integrity, and security, so 
> that you don't have to re-invent the wheel. Since database software 
> tends to be big and complicated, there is a lot of wheel to be 
> re-invented.
>
I wish to thank those whom replied to my previous question regarding 
database vs. file.  The responses received was quite useful and helpful.

Ken