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NOSQL vs SQL. Key differences and when to choose each

Until recently, the default model for application development was SQL. However, in recent years NoSQL has become a popular alternative.

The wide variety of data that is stored today and the workload that servers must support force developers to consider other more flexible and scalable options. NoSQL databases provide agile development and ease of adapting to changes. Even so, they cannot be considered as a replacement for SQL nor are they the most successful choice for all types of projects.

Choosing between NoSQL vs SQL is an important decision, if you wish to avoid technical difficulties during the development of an application. In this article we aim to explore the differences between these two database management systems and guide readers on the use of each of them, taking into account the needs of the project and the type of data to be handled.

Content:

What is NoSQL?

The term NoSQL is short for “Not only SQL” and refers to a category of DBMSs that do not use SQL as their primary query language.

The NoSQL database boom began in 2000, matching the arrival of web 2.0. From then on, applications became more interactive and began to handle large volumes of data, often unstructured. Soon traditional databases fell short in terms of performance and scalability.

Big tech companies at the time decided to look for solutions to address their specific needs. Google was the first to launch a distributed and highly scalable DBMS: BigTable, in 2005. Two years later, Amazon announced the release of Dynamo DB (2007). These databases (and others that were appearing) did not use tables or a structured language, so they were much faster in data processing.

Currently, the NoSQL approach has become very popular due to the rise of Big Data and IoT devices, that generate huge amounts of data, both structured and unstructured.

Thanks to its performance and ability to handle different types of data, NoSQL managed to overcome many limitations present in the relational model. Netflix, Meta, Amazon or LinkedIn are examples of modern applications that use NoSQL database to manage structured information (transactions and payments) as well as unstructured information (comments, content recommendations and user profiles).

Difference between NoSQL and SQL

NoSQL and SQL are two database management systems (DBMS) that differ in the way they store, access and modify information.

The SQL system

SQL follows the relational model, formulated by E.F. Codd in 1970. This English scientist proposed replacing the hierarchical system used by the programmers of the time with a model in which data are stored in tables and related to each other through a common attribute known as “primary key”. Based on their ideas, IBM created SQL (Structured Query Language), the first language designed specifically for relational databases. The company tried unsuccessfully to develop its own RDBMS, so it had to wait until 1979, the year of the release of Oracle DB.

Relational databases turned out to be much more flexible than hierarchical systems and solved the issue of redundancy, following a process known as “normalization” that allows developers to expand or modify databases without having to change their whole structure. For example, an important function in SQL is JOIN, which allows developers to perform complex queries and combine data from different tables for analysis.

The NoSQL system

NoSQL databases are even more flexible than relational databases since they do not have a fixed structure. Instead, they employ a wide variety of models optimized for the specific requirements of the data they store: spreadsheets, text documents, emails, social media posts, etc.

Some data models that NoSQL uses are:

  • Key-value: Redis, Amazon DynamoDB, Riak. They organize data into key and value pairs. They are very fast and scalable.
  • Documentaries: MongoDB, Couchbase, CouchDB. They organize data into documents, usually in JSON format.
  • Graph-oriented: Amazon Neptune, InfiniteGraph. They use graph structures to perform semantic queries and represent data such as nodes, edges, and properties.
  • Column-oriented: Apache Cassandra. They are designed to store data in columns instead of rows as in SQL. Columns are arranged contiguously to improve read speed and allow efficient retrieval of the data subset.
  • Databases in memory: They get rid of the need to access disks. They are used in applications that require microsecond response times or that have high traffic spikes.

In summary, to work with SQL databases, developers must first declare the structure and types of data they will use. In contrast, NoSQL is an open storage model that allows new types of data to be incorporated without this implying project restructuring.

Relational vs. non-relational database

To choose between an SQL or NoSQL database management system, you must carefully study the advantages and disadvantages of each of them.

Advantages of relational databases

  • Data integrity: SQL databases apply a wide variety of restrictions in order to ensure that the information stored is accurate, complete and reliable at all times.
  • Ability to perform complex queries: SQL offers programmers a variety of functions that allow them to perform complex queries involving multiple conditions or subqueries.
  • Support: RDBMS have been around for decades; they have been extensively tested and have detailed and comprehensive documentation describing their functions.

Disadvantages of relational databases

  • Difficulty handling unstructured data: SQL databases have been designed to store structured data in a relational table. This means they may have difficulties handling unstructured or semi-structured data such as JSON or XML documents.
  • Limited performance: They are not optimized for complex and fast queries on large datasets. This can result in long response times and latency periods.
  • Major investment: Working with SQL means taking on the cost of licenses. In addition, relational databases scale vertically, which implies that as a project grows, it is necessary to invest in more powerful servers with more RAM to increase the workload.

Advantages of non-relational databases

  • Flexibility: NoSQL databases allow you to store and manage structured, semi-structured and unstructured data. Developers can change the data model in an agile way or work with different schemas according to the needs of the project.
  • High performance: They are optimized to perform fast queries and work with large volumes of data in contexts where relational databases find limitations. A widely used programming paradigm in NoSQL databases such as MongoDB is “MapReduce” which allows developers to process huge amounts of data in batches, breaking them up into smaller chunks on different nodes in the cluster for later analysis.
  • Availability: NoSQL uses a distributed architecture. The information is replicated on different remote or local servers to ensure that it will always be available.
  • They avoid bottlenecks: In relational databases, each statement needs to be analyzed and optimized before being executed. If there are many requests at once, a bottleneck may take place, limiting the system’s ability to continue processing new requests. Instead, NoSQL databases distribute the workload across multiple nodes in the cluster. As there is no single point of entry for enquiries, the potential for bottlenecks is very low.
  • Higher profitability: NoSQL offers fast and horizontal scalability thanks to its distributed architecture. Instead of investing in expensive servers, more nodes are added to the cluster to expand data processing capacity. In addition, many NoSQL databases are open source, which saves on licensing costs.

Disadvantages of NoSQL databases

  • Restriction on complex queries: NoSQL databases lack a standard query language and may experience difficulties performing complex queries or require combining multiple datasets.
  • Less coherence: NoSQL relaxes some of the consistency constraints of relational databases for greater performance and scalability.
  • Less resources and documentation: Although NoSQL is constantly growing, the documentation available is little compared to that of relational databases that have been in operation for more years.
  • Complex maintenance: Some NoSQL systems may require complex maintenance due to their distributed architecture and variety of configurations. This involves optimizing data distribution, load balancing, or troubleshooting network issues.

When to use SQL databases and when to use NoSQL?

The decision to use a relational or non-relational database will depend on the context. First, study the technical requirements of the application such as the amount and type of data to be used.

In general, it is recommended to use SQL databases in the following cases:

  • If you are going to work with well-defined data structures, for example, a CRM or an inventory management system.
  • If you are developing business applications, where data integrity is the most important: accounting programs, banking systems, etc.

In contrast, NoSQL is the most interesting option in these situations:

  • If you are going to work with unstructured or semi-structured data such as JSON or XML documents.
  • If you need to create applications that process data in real time and require low latency, for example, online games.
  • When you want to store, manage and analyze large volumes of data in Big Data environments. In these cases, NoSQL databases offer horizontal scalability and the possibility of distributing the workload on multiple servers.
  • When you launch a prototype of a NoSQL application, it provides you with fast and agile development.

In most cases, back-end developers decide to use a relational database, unless it is not feasible because the application handles a large amount of denormalized data or has very high performance needs.

In some cases it is possible to adopt a hybrid approach and use both types of databases.

SQL vs NoSQL Comparison

CTO Mark Smallcombe published an article titled “SQL vs NoSQL: 5 Critical Differences” where he details the differences between these two DBMS.

Below is a summary of the essentials of your article, along with other important considerations in comparing SQL vs NoSQL.

How data is stored

In relational databases, data are organized into a set of formally described tables and are related to each other through common identifiers that provide access, consultation and modification.
NoSQL databases store data in its original format. They do not have a predefined structure and can use documents, columns, graphs or a key-value schema.

Language

Relational databases use the SQL structured query language.
Non-relational databases have their own query languages and APIs. For example, MongoDB uses MongoDB Query Language (MQL) which is similar to JSON and Cassandra uses Cassandra Query Language (CQL) which looks like SQL, but is optimized for working with data in columns.

Compliance with ACID properties

Relational databases follow the ACID guidelines (atomicity, consistency, isolation, durability) that guarantee the integrity and validity of the data, even if unexpected errors occur. Adopting the ACID approach is a priority in applications that handle critical data, but it comes at a cost in terms of performance, since data must be written to disk before it is accessible.
NoSQL databases opt instead for the BASE model (basic availability, soft state, eventual consistency), which prioritizes performance over data integrity. A key concept is that of “eventual consistency”. Instead of waiting for the data to be written to disk, some degree of temporal inconsistency is tolerated, assuming that, although there may be a delay in change propagation, once the write operation is finished, all the nodes will have the same version of the data. This approach ensures faster data processing and is ideal in applications where performance is more important than consistency.

Vertical or horizontal scalability

Relational databases scale vertically by increasing server power.
Non-relational databases have a distributed architecture and scale horizontally by adding servers to the cluster. This feature makes NoSQL a more sustainable option for developing applications that handle a large volume of data.

Flexibility and adaptability to change

SQL databases follow strict programming schemes and require detailed planning as subsequent changes are often difficult to implement.
NoSQL databases provide a more flexible development model, allowing easy adaptation to changes without having to perform complex migrations. They are a practical option in agile environments where requirements change frequently.

Role of Pandora FMS in database management

Pandora FMS provides IT teams with advanced capabilities to monitor SQL and NoSQL databases, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, and MongoDB, among others. In addition, it supports virtualization and cloud computing environments (e.g., Azure) to effectively manage cloud services and applications.

Some practical examples of the use of Pandora FMS in SQL and NoSQL databases:

  • Optimize data distribution in NoSQL: It monitors performance and workload on cluster nodes avoiding overloads on individual nodes.
  • Ensure data availability: It replicates the information in different nodes thus minimizing the risk of losses.
  • Send Performance Alerts: It monitors server resources and sends alerts to administrators when it detects query errors or slow response times. This is especially useful in SQL databases whose performance depends on the power of the server where the data is stored.
  • Encourage scalability: It allows you to add or remove nodes from the cluster and adjust the system requirements to the workload in applications that work with NoSQL database.
  • Reduce Latency: It helps administrators identify and troubleshoot latency issues in applications that work with real-time data. For example, it allows you to adjust NoSQL database settings, such as the number of simultaneous connections or the size of the network buffer, thus improving query speed.

Conclusion

Making a correct choice of the type of database is key so that no setbacks arise during the development of a project and expand the possibilities of growth in the future.

Historically, SQL databases were the cornerstone of application programming, but the evolution of the Internet and the need to store large amounts of structured and unstructured data pushed developers to look for alternatives outside the relational model. NoSQL databases stand out for their flexibility and performance, although they are not a good alternative in environments where data integrity is paramount.

It is important to take some time to study the advantages and disadvantages of these two DBMSs. In addition, we must understand that both SQL and NoSQL databases require continuous maintenance to optimize their performance.

Pandora FMS provides administrators with the tools necessary to improve the operation of any type of database, making applications faster and more secure, which translates into a good experience for users.

 

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About PandoraFMS
Pandora FMS is a flexible monitoring system, capable of monitoring devices, infrastructures, applications, services and business processes.
Of course, one of the things that Pandora FMS can control is the hard disks of your computers.

How to prevent malware attacks

You’re a well-respected American professor and consultant for government agencies, deeply involved in national security. In the middle of your packed schedule, an email arrives from what seems like a respected colleague asking for your thoughts on their article.

Flattered, you open the attached PDF, but the text is garbled. Assuming it’s a simple glitch, you ask for a clearer copy but instead get a link to a “decryption” tool. Without hesitation, you click on it, only to lose access to all your data—putting your contacts at risk, too.

This breach is the work of Cold River, tied to the Russian state, using “SPICA” malware. They’ve moved from phishing to malware via PDFs, targeting professionals like you for espionage. “SPICA” gives them deep access to steal sensitive information, showcasing the need for constant cybersecurity vigilance.

Key takeaways

  • Malware can harm computers, networks, and devices, putting your data and money at risk. 

  • Different malware types, like ransomware, Trojans, spyware, adware, and worms, each pose their unique threats. 

  • It spreads via phishing emails, malvertising, exploit kits, and social media scams, taking advantage of software flaws. 

  • To spot malware, watch for slow computers, unexpected data sends, and strange file changes. 

  • Fighting malware means using strong endpoint protection, keeping software up-to-date, and educating your team. 

  • NordLayer’s security solutions greatly lower the chance of malware attacks, helping to keep your information safe.

What is malware?

Malware is software that’s made to damage or misuse computers, networks, and devices. It sneaks into systems through weak spots or tricks, like phishing emails, to do things it shouldn’t. This includes taking private data, harming how systems work, or letting hackers in. Malware is risky because it can cause big money problems, leak private info, and interrupt important services, affecting everyone from people to governments.

Getting malware attacks is cheap, too. By March 2023, top-notch malware services were going for up to $4,500 for every 1,000 installs from dark marketplaces.

Types of malware

In 2023, we’ve seen a rise in malware that threatens both people and companies in unique ways.

Types of malware

Ransomware is a type of malware that locks data and asks for payment to unlock it. It got worse, also now demanding ransom in cryptocurrency. Ransomware attacks jumped 70% by September 2023 from the year before. The MOVEit software breach affected over 2,300 organizations, revealing private info like health records. The “cl0p” gang’s attack shows how advanced ransomware has become.

Trojans pretend to be safe software to steal data or take control remotely. They now target PCs, Macs, and mobile devices more than ever. Downloading risky content or ignoring updates can invite Trojans, reminding us to stay alert and keep our software fresh.

Spyware secretly collects personal details like what you type and where you go online. This risk highlights the need for safe web habits and spyware protection tools.

Adware might be less harmful but annoys you with unwanted ads and might track you online. This shows why using ad blockers and valuing privacy online matters.

Worms spread through networks by finding weak spots in software, stealing data, or hogging bandwidth. This points to the urgent need to update systems and secure networks.

To deal with these malware types, keeping network security practices sharp, educating ourselves and others, and strengthening our cyber defenses are key.

How is malicious software distributed?

Malware distribution has gotten trickier, using both tech smarts and cunning tricks to sneak into systems and trick people. Here’s a rundown of common ways it spreads:

  1. Phishing emails. Simple but effective, these emails trick people into clicking harmful links or attachments, often looking like they’re from real companies or friends.

  2. Malvertising. This method puts malware into ads on legitimate websites. Just visiting the site might infect a user; no clicks are needed.

  3. Exploit kits. These tools find and use weaknesses in software or systems to slip malware in when someone visits a compromised site.

  4. Social media scams. Fake profiles or messages on social platforms can spread malware, using tempting offers or urgent warnings to lure clicks to dangerous sites.

  5. Supply chain attacks. Here, malware is hidden in software before it even gets to the user, aiming to hit many targets at once.

  6. RDP attacks. More people working remotely means more malware attacks on the Remote Desktop Protocol, where thieves use stolen details to get into systems and plant malware.

  7. File-sharing services. Malware disguised as regular files on sharing sites can trick users into downloading harm.

  8. Spear phishing and whaling. These personalized malware attacks target specific people or companies or go after big fish with the aim of a big payoff.

  9. Zero-day vulnerabilities. Unknown flaws in software are gold for cybercriminals, letting them attack before a fix is out.

  10. Mobile malware apps. Bad apps in app stores can look legit but are really malware in disguise, aiming to infect phones and tablets.

How to recognize malware

For businesses, spotting malware quickly is key to keeping their data safe.

Look out for these signs that might suggest malware presence in your operating system.

Signs of malware infection Strange system actions

  • Devices or networks slow down might mean malware is using up resources.

  • Systems crash or show errors, which could be malware messing with them.

  • Programs open or install by themselves might be due to malware.

Odd network use

  • Unexpected data sent out could be malware stealing sensitive information.

  • New, unauthorized network connections might be a sign of malware.

Changes in files

  • Files change or vanish without user action, pointing to malware.

  • New files or programs that users didn’t install appear, indicating malware.

Alerts from security software

  • Antivirus gives warnings; it might be spotting malware.

  • A firewall gives out unusual alerts about blocked connections or port access attempts, signaling malware.

More spam and phishing

A rise in phishing emails can show a malware attack is underway.

Weird browser behavior

Browser redirects to odd sites, home page changes, or more pop-ups can indicate malware.

To detect malware, you need:

  • Scan systems regularly with the latest antivirus and anti-malware tools, especially after installing new software.

  • Watch network traffic for any strange activity with monitoring tools.

  • Train employees to recognize and report malware signs.

  • Update all software to close off vulnerabilities.

  • Use advanced protection like ATP solutions for better defense against malware.

Spotting malware early helps businesses react fast to reduce harm. Having a clear plan for when you suspect malware is crucial.

How to prevent malware

To keep businesses safe from malware, a well-rounded cybersecurity strategy is essential. Here are the top seven steps businesses can take:

Malware prevention checklist

Use advanced endpoint protection

Opt for antivirus and EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) solutions that detect and neutralize malware using machine learning. These tools scan for unusual activities and help effectively remove malware. An EDR system, for example, could prevent a ransomware attack by identifying and isolating the threat before it encrypts any files. 

Update software regularly

Ensure your operating system, applications, and network devices are always updated. Outdated software is a prime target for hackers. The WannaCry ransomware incident is a stark reminder: it exploited unpatched Windows systems worldwide. Apply updates promptly for malware prevention.

Train your employees

Educate your staff about the dangers of malware and the importance of verifying new software sources before downloading. Practical training sessions can reduce malware risks by teaching employees to recognize phishing scams, a common malware delivery method. Remind everyone to scrutinize email senders and not to click on suspicious links, which can prevent many potential breaches.

Set up secure email gateways

Deploy email security solutions that filter phishing scams and dangerous links in advance. Use sandboxing technologies that safely analyze dubious email attachments. This step helps stop malware at the entry point.

Segment your network

Divide your network into segments to better manage and contain potential malware spread to other computers. Implementing strict access controls ensures that users have access only to necessary resources. That limits the impact if data is compromised. 

Network segmentation proved effective during the NotPetya malware outbreak, as it helped contain the spread within segmented parts of the network, minimizing overall damage.

Back up data and plan for incidents

Back up your data and have a plan ready for any incidents. Always keep important resources backed up in places separate from your main network, and keep updating your plan for dealing with cyber threats.

Having backups means you can get back on track without paying off ransomware, keeping your data and money safe.

Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Add MFA for better security. It helps keep your operating system safe, even if someone guesses your password. Using MFA makes it much harder for hackers to break in, as they can’t easily bypass this extra security step.

How NordLayer can help

NordLayer offers strong tools for businesses to fight malware with advanced threat prevention and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA).

Zero Trust best practices

NordLayer proactively fights threats to keep your data safe. It uses tools and rules that protect every part of your network.

This includes:

  • Stopping advanced threats. NordLayer uses multiple security layers to protect against complex malicious software and phishing.

  • Protecting the network. It keeps your network safe, guarding against threats from outside, no matter where your devices are.

  • Quick incident response. If there’s a breach, NordLayer acts fast to limit damage and keep your data safe.

NordLayer’s ZTNA means not trusting any connection by default. This method checks every access attempt carefully, offering:

  • Secure access and segmentation. NordLayer makes sure users can only reach what they need to, keeping your data safer.

  • Lower insider threat risk. By controlling access tightly, NordLayer reduces the chance of data breaches.

  • Remote work security. NordLayer’s ZTNA protects remote workers, giving them secure access to what they need quickly.

  • A better alternative to VPNs. NordLayer’s ZTNA is a safer option, allowing remote users access only to necessary apps that protect your internal resources.

Using NordLayer’s strategies, businesses can protect themselves against malicious software, keeping their operations secure and running smoothly.

Contact our sales for further assistance.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

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