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> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
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# What is a Database?

## The Concept of Database

Databases are sets of information accessible to computers. They are used to store information such as customer records, product catalogues or financial transaction records.

Databases are organized in tables, similar to the folders in a file system. Tables contain records, with individual fields. These fields may contain different types of information, including text, numbers and dates.

Databases can use various programming languages, including [SQL](https://help.ex2.com/en/article/what-is-the-sql-language-r7oy2w/?bust=1784818886701), Java and [PHP](https://help.ex2.com/en/article/what-is-php-and-what-is-it-used-for-x4xvdq/?bust=1784817762522). Many software programs allow users to create and manage databases. These include Oracle, Microsoft Access, and FileMaker Pro.

Databases are very useful for a variety of business applications. In particular, they can be used to manage customer relations and to plan a company’s resources. They are also used in the fields of education and scientific research, such as government data.