Linux vs. Windows Web Server

 Linux Server

A Linux server is a server that is built on the Linux open-source operating system. This type of a server provides a low-cost option to businesses for delivering content, services and applications to their clients. Being open-source, Linux provides its users the benefits that comes along with a community of resources that are available.

Windows Server

Windows Server is a brand name that is associated with a group of server operating systems which have been released by Microsoft.  Windows server is a server operating system. It lets a computer manage network roles that include but are not limited to web server, domain controller, print server and file server.

Web Hosting

Web hosting is a service that is provided by website hosting companies, which are also referred to as web hosts. In website hosting various packages are provided to website owners which ensure that the necessary services and technologies are made available to them for the purpose of making their websites accessible over the Internet. Websites are made of files. These files are stored on the servers that are provided by these web hosts.

Web hosting can be Windows-based or Linux-based. The other types of web hosting are shared, dedicated, VPS, reseller, cloud, WordPress etc.

These days there are many web hosting service providers that have similar plans with similar pricing. What sets these apart from each other is the quality of service offered by them. There are many web hosts that have earned the reputation of being the best in the industry due to the excellent service provided by them. These are often referred to as the “Best Website Hosting Company” or as the “Best Windows Hosting Company” or as the “Top Cloud Hosting Company”.

Linux vs. Windows Server

Whether one wants to operate a web server privately or rent one through a web hosting package from a web hosting service provider, there is always a choice between Linux and Windows, when it comes to opting for a server. Let us look at the pros and cons of each one of these to understand what each of these types of servers has to offer.

 The Pros and Cons of Linux as a Server Operating System

Pros

Linux is free of charge and it supports cooperative work. In it the administrators can reap the benefits that are offered by the freedom that is provided by the system’s administration. In it there are a number of simple tools that aid in the system’s configuration and administration. It is rarely the target of cyber criminals. Hence, it doesn’t experience security issues often. In the event that it does encounter any security issue, it can be resolved easily. It doesn’t burden one’s hardware with demands. Moreover, it provides integrated remote function for the purpose of remote administration.

Cons

Its operation is complex as well as its update process can be very complex at times. Certain third-party programs can be installed only by the administrator. Not all of its versions provide long-term support. Many professional programs do not work with Linux.

The Pros and Cons of Windows as a Server Operating System

Pros

Windows Operating System is simple and in it all the programs are found in the form of graphic user interfaces that are intuitive. Hence, it is beginner-friendly due to its intuitive operations through a graphic user interface. It supports many third-party applications. There is easy as well as quick availability of drivers that are meant for up-to-date hardware. It offers automatized system updates that are not only easy but also optional. It guarantees long-term support. It makes it possible to solve problems that are technical with the aid of system recovery. It offers compatibility with Microsoft programs that are popular as well as exclusive, such as Sharepoint.

Cons

Its licensing costs are high and this amount increases with each user. It encounters, quite frequently, errors that are related to security and it is vulnerable to attacks of malware. It is resource intensive. In it there is a possibility of user errors that are on a larger scale. It is not suitable as a multi-user system. Complete disclosure isn’t available with regard to the way the proprietary system works.

Conclusion

To recapitulate, the major differences between Linux and Windows servers are that the license for Linux is free whereas it costs for Windows. The standard operation for Linux is Command line but for Windows it is graphic user interface. With regard to remote access, Linux offers integrated solution (terminal and shell) whereas for Windows, terminal server/client has to be installed and configured. In Linux, porting isn’t there for all programs. Windows supports popular programs. When it comes to hardware support, the availability of hardware drivers for Linux happens much later. Windows generally includes new hardware. In Linux, the regular users do not have access to the basic system settings. Moreover, in it the security breaches that are known, get resolved quickly. On the other hand, Windows is very prone to user errors as well as to potential cyber-attacks. In terms of documentation, in Linux, the system’s complete source code, libraries, API and applications are available. When it comes to documentation in Windows, the system and system applications are very well documented but it is less so with regard to API components and file formats. Source: https://htswebhosting.wordpress.com/2021/01/30/linux-vs-windows-web-server/

What is Multicast DNS?

 Multicast DNS (mDNS)

With regard to computer networking, mDNS (multicast DNS) is a protocol that resolves hostnames to IP addresses within small networks where a local nameserver is not included. It is a zero-configuration service. The multicast process is part of TCP/IP. It can work without the appropriate configurations.

Multicast DNS uses the same packet formats, operating semantics and programming interfaces as the unicast Domain Name System (DNS). Despite being designed as a stand-alone protocol, mDNS can work together with standard DNS servers. This protocol is published as RFC 6762. It uses IP multicast User Datagram Protocol (UDP) packets.

To digress, the mention of servers calls to mind the servers of web hosting companies that are used to store the files of websites. Web hosts provide the technologies and services that make these files available over the Internet.  Most web hosting companies offer various forms of hosting (shared, dedicated, cloud, reseller, WordPress, VPS etc.) as well as different packages for each type. These services are often referred to as the “Best Web Hosting Service” or as the “Top Cloud Hosting Service” or even as the “Best Windows Hosting Service”.

How does Multicast DNS work?

Multicast DNS (mDNS) is a protocol that aids in name resolution in smaller networks. It makes use of a different approach than that in DNS, for the above-mentioned purpose. Rather than querying a nameserver, all participants in the network are directly addressed in it. A multicast is sent into the network by the appropriate client, while it is enquired about the network participant that matches up with the hostname. A multicast entails a unique type of communication. Through this unique form of communication an individual message is directed towards a recipients’ group, which can consist of an entire network or a sub-network. In this manner, the request also reaches that particular group participant by whom that hostname is owned that has been searched for. A response is generated for the entire network through the multicast. All participants receive information regarding the connection between the name and IP address. This enables them to make a corresponding entry into their multicast DNS cache. Till the time that this notation remains valid, none in the network requires to request the hostname.

A relatively large amount of traffic is created by the multicast DNS. It tries to save those network resources that are active. In order to accomplish this purpose, the client that has made the request sends a reply which as per the client is correct. In the event that this isn’t correct anymore or when the entry is going to expire, the recipient needs to reply. The other participants get informed prior to receiving a reply. Hence, this protocol reduces the traffic within the network. Only those hostnames are possible with multicast DNS that have the ending “.local”. This imposes a limitation on this type of name resolution on local networks. Multicast DNS does not process hostnames with other top-level domains (TLDs). Hence, this way can’t be used to resolve web addresses.

 

Advantages of Multicast DNS

There are many advantages of multicast DNS protocol. These are mentioned below, in no particular order.

It executes operation that is like DNS on local link, sans the conventional DNS server.

The mDNS system doesn’t require configuration or administration.

Multicast DNS service implementation does not need any additional infrastructure.

It works even when the system’s infrastructure fails.

It saves the cost that is required to reserve global domain name.

It doesn’t need a separate error detection mechanism.

It is designed for small networks and increases their user-friendliness.

It doesn’t need a server or directory to be established.

Additional devices can be imported quickly and dynamically.

Disadvantages of Multicast DNS

The disadvantages of multicast DNS are recounted below, in no particular order.

It can’t be used with regard to a network that has a large number of nodes.

Multicast DNS’ performance is poor compared to that of conventional DNS in network with larger nodes.

A large number of queries and their responses are generated by mDNS, which results in a significant burden on the local network.

Multiple IP subnets cannot use multicast DNS.

Multicast DNS burdens the processing power.

Confidential data can be found via an open multicast DNS.

Cybercriminals can find and use an open multicast DNS for DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) attacks.

Source: https://htswebhosting.wordpress.com/2021/01/27/what-is-multicast-dns/

How to keep Virtual Private Server secure?

 VPS is the abbreviation for Virtual Private Server. VPS hosting is a very useful hosting option for your website which uses virtualization technology to enable you to reap the benefits of dedicated resources on a server with more than one user. It is a more reliable and secure solution than shared hosting as you get a dedicated server space exclusively for your use. At the same time it is cheaper and smaller-scale than owning a dedicated server as is the case in dedicating hosting.

VPS hosting is ideal for websites that experience medium-level traffic that goes over the limit offered by a specific shared hosting plan but doesn’t need the resources of dedicated hosting.

VPS hosting makes you avail the services of a virtual server that simulates a physical server but is shared among many users. The server is divided into partitions that allow each user to install his own operating system and software. This makes a Virtual Private Server virtual and private and gives the website owner full control. Almost all of the best Web hosting companies and cloud hosting companies do provide VPS hosting as well.

Your hosting provider takes steps to keep the server secure at all times but you can take certain measures to ensure its security as well. In this article we will have a look at some of these ways.

There are a few ways to ensure the security of your control panel regardless of whether it is a cPanel or Plesk. One of the easiest ways yet often ignored is to use lengthy passwords which makes it more challenging for an automated tool in the software to crack it than when using a simpler password.

Always ensure to have the latest performance patches along with the latest security fixes that give you a more secure server to save it from spam botnet. Plesk and cPanel allow you to update software within their Web interface. Both of these have a Security Advisor tool that helps you in security. It provides to you essential features such as extra firewall tools, encrypting SSL certificate and checks regular server updates.

Let’s look at some specific ways to keep cPanel secure. Make use of CSF (ConfigServer Firewall). This is an excellent add-on for your cPanel servers. It makes the administration work of your firewall extremely easy. It assists in managing IP blocking, whitelisting server-wide and brute force protection. Another important protection tool is CPHulk that ensures the protection of all important system services such as cPanel, email, WHM and SSH.

Now let us go through some essential tips for Plesk. You can install add-ons on your Plesk which monitor log files for system services such as email, SSH, Plesk Logins to name a few. This is beneficial for Plesk users to ensure the safety of their end-users.

In Plesk patches are not applied automatically. Rather messages are received on logging in Plesk that makes you aware of the updates that are available. These need to be installed manually after that. To have the latest security patches for your system packages and Plesk you need to do this on a regular basis. Plesk gives you access to an efficient tool in the tools & settings section of the Plesk interface. Alternatively you can run the Plesk installer over SSH.

Now let us look at some ways to secure Linux VPS. You should use SSH (Secure Shell) while you log into your server as it is the safest way to log into your remote server. Then you should deactivate the root account to disable the root login option. You must create unique user accounts for each user and service on your Linux VPS. Provide them only those permissions that are needed by them to do their tasks and make other permissions inaccessible to them. Make sure to disable all the unnecessary user accounts. Additionally download software only from authentic channels. You must avoid unnecessary services and install and run only those services that you need. Third party services might carry potential threats to your servers security. Configure the permission setting in such a way that allows your site and apps to function efficiently without any threat to your server security.

Finally let us look at the ways to keep Windows VPS secure. First and foremost, use IDS (Intrusion Detection System) to protect your server from cyber threats. It maintains a record of the files that have been changed along with their time and alerts you of anything new  or altered.

Use bastion host which is a special purpose computer available on the network that is configured to withstand cyber attacks. It limits direct access to your server from public network and also reduces the risk of penetration. At the same time enable BitLocker for Server Drive Encryption. This will provide security to your information and protect your Windows VPS from offline attacks to keep your data safe.

You should use alternate ports for common services. The default ports for privileged services are used to break into your server. In order to avoid such attempts you should use alternate ports. It secures your Terminal Server or Remote Desktop Server. You should remove unwanted protocols. You should disable all the unnecessary services and their bindings to reduce threats. You can use a port binding to keep track record of unknown activities on your server.

To conclude, server security should always be a top priority in this day and age when cyber attacks are rampant wherever vulnerabilities exist. Every measure should be taken to keep your server safe at all times after collecting all the relevant information.

Source: https://htswebhosting.wordpress.com/2021/01/26/how-to-keep-virtual-private-server-secure/

FTP, its Advantages and Disadvantages

FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) refers to a standard Internet protocol that is meant for transferring files between computers over the Internet on Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) connections. It is a client-server protocol. In it a client asks for a file which is provided by a local or remote server. Those users who have the access can transfer and receive files on the server related to File Transfer Protocol. Local host machine is the name given to the end-user’s machine. This local host machine is connected to the remote host over the Internet. The remote host is the second machine. It runs the FTP software. Website developers make use of FTP in order to make changes to a website. FTP increases the comfort and security of managing a large volume of files.

How FTP Functions?

Two parties are needed by an FTP connection for the purpose of communicating over the network. For that to work, users need permission. This is accomplished by making the credentials available to the FTP server. Credentials might not be required by certain FTP servers that are public, in order to access the files. This is commonplace in an anonymous FTP. Two communication channels establish an FTP connection. One of these is the command channel. In it instruction and response are initiated. The other channel is the data channel. It is related to the distribution of data. The protocol to request creation of changes in the server is used by an authorized user for the purpose of getting or transferring a file. Access is granted by the server in response, in a session that is called the active connection mode. In the event that a firewall is ensuring the protection of a user’s machine, a problem might be encountered by the distribution in active mode. Unauthorized sessions from an external party are not allowed by a firewall. Both, command and the data channel are established by the user in this mode. In this mode the server is asked to listen instead of trying to establish a connection back to the user.

Establishing an FTP connection

An FTP connection can be established in 3 ways. One of these methods gets this done by using a command-line FTP. For example, the use of Command prompt for Windows or Terminal in Mac/Linux. It is used frequently. Alternatively, a web browser can be used by a user for communicating with the FTP server. It ensures better convenience in the event that users need to have access to large directories in the server. It can prove to be not as reliable as a dedicated FTP program. It can be slower as well in comparison to a dedicated FTP program. FTP is most commonly used these days as an FTP client. This is especially true for those that are web developers. More freedom is provided by an FTP client as compared to the command line and the web browser. Moreover, it can be managed easily and is more powerful than the other methods. An FTP client offers more features as well. Large files can be easily transferred via it and it uses synchronizing utility.

To digress, the talk on servers reminds us of the servers that are used by web hosting companies for the purpose of hosting the files of websites. Storage space is leased by web hosting companies for this purpose. Web hosts also make available the technology that is needed by websites to be up and running along with providing efficient customer service to resolve any problem that the clients might be facing. Efficient and reliable web hosting service providers are often referred to as the “Best Web Hosting Company” or as the “Best Windows Hosting Company in India” or even as the “Top Cloud Hosting Company”.

Advantages of FTP

There are many advantages of File Transfer Protocol. These are mentioned below, in no particular order.

Multiple file directories can be sent simultaneously

Data can be transferred efficiently in bulk across a network

Files can be moved easily in an organized manner

There is no loss of progress, even when connection has timed out

Configuration is needed once. The settings get saved

It is easy to use for those with an IT background

Multiple levels of access can be created

Data transfer mode can be selected

Disadvantages of FTP

FTP has certain disadvantages as well, which are mentioned below.

It is old and challenging to use for those that don’t have an IT background

Ownership of a file can’t be changed

Inconvenience of accidentally wiping out work by inexperienced users

Doesn’t provide security when transferring data because of lack of encryption

Usernames and passwords are in plain text

It is challenging to make recursive changes

Various attacks can be encountered while transferring data by FTP

It is not easy to identify errors unless one knows the server response codes

It is expensive to make one’s own server

Provides very limited mobile device access without an application

It is difficult to create automatic scripts

There isn’t any integration setup, such as Outlook etc.

It isn’t easy to scan for virus

Doesn’t provide any simple option to share files

Provides very limited integration capabilities when there is no upfront work

Provides minimal auditing capabilities because of limited logging and reporting

Provides very minimum user permissions

Drive cannot be mounted easily

It is difficult to scale users or storage

Loss of branding on external file shares

It is almost impossible to create activity notifications

Source: https://htswebhosting.wordpress.com/2021/01/25/ftp-its-advantages-and-disadvantages/

Windows Event Log and its Types

 Windows Event Log

The Windows event log refers to a detailed record that is related to security, system and application notifications that are stored by the Windows operating system. It is used by administrators for the purpose of diagnosing issues with the system and forecasting future problems. An event log can be generated by the Windows operating system with regard to any activity on its software or hardware components. These event logs are used to record such software and hardware actions that are important and which can be used by the administrators to troubleshoot issues with the operating system. Specific events are tracked by the Windows operating system in its log files. Some of these are system setup operations on initial startup, application installations, security management etc. These logs can be analyzed and aggregated by operations and network security analysts with the aid of specialized software tools.

In the context of Windows, let us take a moment to describe in brief the concept of web hosting, which can be Windows based or Linux based. Web hosting is the service that is provided by web hosting service providers. In it, server space is leased along with making those services and technologies available that are needed by a website to remain up and running. There are many different terms that are used to refer to these web hosting companies, such as the “Best Windows Hosting Company the “Hosting Company in India” and the “Top Cloud Hosting Company” etc.

What are the types of Windows Event Logs?

Windows is pre-configured to classify Windows event logs in the following six categories-

System Log – Those events that occur within the operating system itself are recorded by a system log. Its examples are sign-in and sign-out events, driver errors during start-up etc.

Application Logs – If an event takes place inside an application, then an application log gets created. With the aid of these logs, code developers can understand and measure the behavior of applications during their development stage as well as prior to their release.

File Replication Service Log – It is another type of a log file. This type of file is available only for domain controllers. It records information that is related to file replications which take place in the system.

Directory Service Logs – These logs might be generated by a computer which has been configured to respond to requests related to security authentication within a Windows Server domain, which is also known as a domain controller. Authentication operations, user privilege changes and other operations and requests which take place in the Windows Active Directory are recorded by these logs.

Security Logs – These type of logs get created in response to security issues that occur in the computer. Its examples are password changes, file deletion, failed log-ins, failed authentication requests etc. The types of events that need to be entered into the security log can be configured by the network administrators.

DNS Server Logs – These are a special type of log files. These record a DNS server’s activity.

Source: https://htswebhosting.wordpress.com/2021/01/24/windows-event-log-and-its-types/

What is DMARC?

 DMARC

DMARC is the abbreviation for Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance. It is an email protocol. When it is published for a particular domain, it controls the outcome of a message’s authentication tests’ failure. The failure of authentication tests for a message implies that the recipient server has not succeeded in verifying that the identity of the particular message’s sender is authentic. Sender Policy Framework (SPF)  and DomainKeys identified mail (DKIM) are used by DMARC to ascertain the authenticity of an email message. SPF and DKIM are the authentication checks that analyze the messages that appear to be from a particular sender’s domain. This helps to ascertain if the message was indeed sent by that message’s domain. DMARC manages the aftermath of messages failing the authentication tests, such as SPF and DKIM. In this manner it acts as the access controller for inboxes. Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance aids Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in averting domain spoofing and other malicious practices with regard to emails. Hence, it needs to be set up properly to ensure the protection of inboxes against malware and phishing attacks.

DMARC record is published alongside DNS (Domain Name System) records. SPF, DKIM, CNAME and A-record are included in it. DNS is used by DMARC in order to publish information regarding the way in which an email originating from a domain should be managed.

One important fact to bear in mind is that a DMARC check is not carried out by every receiving server, prior to accepting a message. The major ISPs are known to perform this check and more and more ISPs are following suit.

In the context of domains, it is common knowledge that a domain name is that address which lets Internet users access any website. Every website has two essential elements, a domain name and a web server. Server space is provided by web hosting companies to store and make available the files of a website. These web hosts also offer in the form of various packages all the necessary technologies and services that are needed for web hosting. Many people refer to web hosting companies as the “Best Windows Hosting Company” or the “Top Cloud Hosting Company” or even the “Best Web Hosting Company in India”, when the services provided by these web hosts are outstanding.

How does DMARC Work?

After the DMARC DNS entry has been published, any incoming email can be authenticated by any receiving email server. This is accomplished by following the instructions that have been published within the DNS entry. These are published by the domain owner. The email recipients that use DMARC scan the entire volume of emails. In the event that the email succeeds in passing the authentication check, it acquires the status of being trustworthy and gets delivered. When the email fails the authentication check, it can either be delivered or declined delivery or quarantined. This decision will be based on the instructions that are contained within the DMARC record.

Two email authentication mechanisms are extended by DMARC. These are, as mentioned earlier, SPF (Sender Policy Framework) and DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail). A policy is published by the administrative owner of a domain in his DNS records. This policy specifies the mechanism, such as SPF, DKIM or both, that is to be employed when an email is sent from that domain.

Benefits of DMARC

There are many benefits of DMARC. Let us touch upon these. DMARC safeguards the reputation of a brand by ensuring that no malicious or unwanted mails are sent from one’s domain by parties that are unauthenticated. DMARC reports enhance the visibility into one’s emails by making one aware of the sender of emails from one’s domain. Moreover, DMARC aids in combating malicious email practices and helps in establishing a policy that is consistent with regard to dealing with messages that do not succeed to authenticate and contributes in developing better security.

Source: https://htshosting.org/blog/2021/01/what-is-dmarc/

The Uses of Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup

 Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup

Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup refers to the reverse of what happens in a Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup. To elaborate, the DNS or hostname is queried to get the corresponding IP address in Domain Name System (DNS) lookup. The opposite of this happens in Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) lookup, where the IP address is queried to find the hostname.

Domain Name System (DNS)

Domain Name System’s abbreviation is DNS. It refers to a hierarchical and decentralized nomenclature of computers, services or other resources that are connected to either the Internet or to a private network. The DNS delegates the task that assigns domain names and maps those to Internet resources. It translates domain names that are more easily memorized, to numerical IP addresses. These IP addresses are used to locate and identify computer services and devices. The DNS specifies the technical functionality of the service related to a database. A DNS database stores most commonly the following types of records, IP addresses (A and AAAA), Start of Authority (SOA), name servers (NS), SMTP mail exchangers (MX), domain name aliases (CNAME) and pointers for reverse DNS lookups (PTR). The Reverse DNS records are stored in a PTR record which is a type of a DNS record. A pointer (PTR) record aids in resolving an IP address to a hostname.

In the context of the Internet, the first thing that comes to mind are the various websites that we browse on the Internet. These websites are accessible due to the server space and the services that are provided by web hosting companies, through the wide range of paid packages that these offer. There are different types of hosting services that are provided by web hosts. These are shared, dedicated, cloud, VPS, reseller and WordPress. When terms such as, “Windows Shared Hosting” or “Linux Dedicated Hosting” or even the “Best Linux Web Hosting in India” are used, these refer to various types of web hosting services.

What are the Uses of Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup?

Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup is advantageous in many situations. These will be touched upon as we progress. The first use that needs to be mentioned is how Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup aids in finding spam emails. It is challenging to discern licit mail servers from spam servers with the aid of nothing more than the IP addresses. Potential clues are provided by certain generic Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) names for a mail server that is spam. This is one of the many ways in which the Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup can come in handy.

It also helps in acquiring information about the visitors of a particular website. IP addresses are usually maintained in the website visit logs. Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup can be used for finding the hostname of the visitors of any website. This can prove to be very advantageous for businesses.

It is extremely useful with regard to one’s outgoing emails when one is hosting one’s own email server. With the help of Reverse DNS record the origin of an email can be traced. This adds to the email server’s credibility. Often incoming emails are not granted entry in the email boxes of certain incoming email servers unless one has Reverse DNS record set up. This is an important point to bear in mind, if one is using one’s own mail server.

Last but not the least, Reverse Domain Name System (DNS) Lookup can prove to be very beneficial when a cybercrime investigation is being carried out. Moreover, Reverse DNS records can help to identify potential dangers that lurk in the cyberspace.

Final Thoughts

Reverse DNS Lookup, which is essentially the opposite of a traditional DNS Lookup, queries DNS servers for a PTR (pointer) record. It proves to be very useful in many ways and for various purposes, as is evident from all the information that has been provided here.

Source:https://htshosting.org/blog/2021/01/the-uses-of-reverse-domain-name-system-dns-lookup/

What is a Database?

 Database

A database is an electronically stored collection of structured information (data) which is well-organized. In simpler terms, it can be referred to as a systematic collection of data (facts grouped together for analysis or reference). A database management system (DBMS) controls a database. Data, the DBMS and their associated applications form the database system. Often a database system is referred to as database. Data maintained in databases can be accessed easily as well as managed, modified, updated and controlled efficiently. Structured Query Language (SQL) is used by most databases to serve the purpose of writing as well as querying data. Complex databases are developed with the aid of techniques related to design as well as modelling that are formal.

Use of Database

The internal operations of organizations are supported by their databases. A Database stores data and makes it easy to search any specific data as well as renders data sorting effortless. Another benefit is that new data can be added easily and existing data can be edited and deleted quickly and comfortably. Indexing is possible in a database. The data that is stored in it always has context which is another advantage. Metadata, which is the special information that is used to manage data, is stored by a database. A database facilitates the import of data into other applications without any challenge. Moreover, the data that is in a database can be accessed by more than one person simultaneously. It manages access rights to the data that is in it. These are the major benefits that a database provides.

Web Hosting

To digress, we use the Internet to send as well as receive data. In the context of the Internet, there are many websites that are accessible over it. We browse these websites regularly to meet our various requirements. These websites have files that are stored on the servers of website hosting companies which lease server space. Server space along with all the necessary technologies that are needed to make a website accessible over the Internet are made available through various packages by these web hosting companies. Web hosting is of many types, such as, shared, dedicated, reseller, WordPress, cloud and VPS. These various types of hosting services are frequently referred to as the “Best Linux Web Hosting”, or as the “Best Windows Shared Hosting” or as the “Top Cloud Hosting Company” depending on the type of hosting and owing to the high quality of service that these provide constantly.

Database Models’ Types

The logical structure of a database is determined by a database model. This type of a data model ascertains the manner in which data gets to be stored and organized as well as manipulated. The different ways in which data can be represented will be mentioned briefly now. Let us first touch upon simple files which are also referred to as flat files. As is evident from the name itself, it is the simplest model of database. In it the storage of all the data happens in plain text form in a file.

When we refer to another model which is the Hierarchical model, it organizes data hierarchically. There is a model that is similar to a Hierarchical model which is the Network model but its structure is more complex. A Network model makes use of records and sets for storing data.  A Relational model is another widely used database model type which functions by using predicate logic and set theory.

One more type of a database model is an Object oriented model. In it objects are used to represent data. These can communicate directly with the Object Oriented Programming (OOP) language that is used. It is possible because both of these contain the same representation of the data. A hybrid of the relational model and the Object-oriented model is the Object relational model. Last but not the least is the NoSQL model which is a new type of database model. This model stores data as key-value pairs. Unlike other database models, strict hierarchy doesn’t apply to it.

Database Challenges

Some of the most common challenges that are encountered with regard to a database are ensuring the security of data, adapting quickly to any sudden increase in data volume and resolving the limitations that are related to scalability.

Final Thoughts

In today’s globalized business world, there is a constant influx of data. This data when maintained in a database can be accessed and managed easily as well as efficiently and eventually these databases can be used for superior decision-making in order to increase the efficiency and productivity of any organization.

Source: https://www.htshosting.org/index.php/knowledgebase/11/What-is-a-Database.html