Types of Database

1. number of users
• If only one user is supported at one time the database called a Single-User Database.
• If more than one user can use the database concurrently it is called Multi-User Database.
2. database site location
• A DBMS that supports a database in a single location is called a centralized DBMS.
• A database that supports over several different sites is called a distributed DBMS.
3. the expected type and extent of use
• A DBMS that supports time critical information that must be recorded accurately and immediately is called a transactional DBMS or a production DBMS. (e.g.Banks)
• A DBMS that supports tactical and decision support to management is called a decision support database. (DSS) DSS's hold historcal data normally from multiple sources. This data in not normally seen as time critical. "Data warehouse" is used to describe the design favored by DSS's.